Dentin

Dentin is a calcified tissue of the body, and along with enamel, cementum, and pulp, one of the four major components of teeth. It is usually covered by enamel on the crown and cementum on the root and surrounds the entire pulp.

Composition

Dentin is composed of mineralized hydroxyapatite, which is also found in bones. However, unlike bone, dentin is not resorbed and replaced throughout life. It is derived from the dental papilla of the tooth germ.

Structure

The structure of dentin can be divided into primary, secondary and tertiary dentin.

• Primary dentin is formed before the eruption of the tooth into the oral cavity.
• Secondary dentin is formed after the tooth has erupted and continues to form throughout life.
• Tertiary dentin is formed in response to stimuli, such as wear, caries, or trauma, and has a different structure than primary or secondary dentin.

Function

Dentin transmits the forces of mastication from the teeth to the surrounding alveolar bone. It also provides a protective barrier for the pulp.

Clinical significance

Dentin is susceptible to dental caries, which can lead to pulpitis and pulp necrosis. It can also be affected by non-carious processes such as attrition, abrasion, erosion, and abfraction.

See also

• Tooth enamel
• Tooth development
• Dental pulp

References

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