Enamel
Enamel
Enamel (/ɪˈnæməl/) is the hard, outermost layer that covers the crown of the teeth. It is the most visible part of the tooth and has a glossy, white appearance.
Etymology
The term "enamel" is derived from the Old French esmail, which is in turn derived from the Germanic word smaltjan (to smelt) referring to the process of manufacturing enamel by fusing powdered glass.
Structure and Function
Enamel is composed primarily of hydroxyapatite, a crystalline calcium phosphate, making it the hardest tissue in the human body. Despite its hardness, enamel is brittle and can be damaged by trauma or decay. Unlike other tissues in the body, enamel does not regenerate or repair itself once it is damaged because it does not contain any living cells.
Enamel's primary function is to protect the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, namely the dentin and the pulp. It also plays a crucial role in the mechanical process of chewing, allowing the teeth to withstand the forces applied during mastication.
Related Terms
- Dentin: The layer of the tooth located directly beneath the enamel. It is less hard than enamel but more resilient.
- Pulp: The innermost part of the tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels.
- Caries: Also known as tooth decay, it is a process that leads to the destruction of enamel and other tooth structures.
- Hydroxyapatite: The main mineral component of enamel, dentin, and bone.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Enamel
- Wikipedia's article - Enamel
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