Dental Enamel Composition and Properties

Dental enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body, serving as the protective outer layer of teeth. It is highly mineralized, with a low organic content and porosity, ranking fifth on the Mohs scale. Enamel consists of calcium and phosphate ions, forming a complex crystalline structure known as hydroxyapatite (HAp). The presence of trace elements in enamel can influence its physical and chemical properties. For instance, the concentration of trace elements such as Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Cr, Mn, Pb, and Se is correlated with enamel hardness, lightness, crystal domain size along the c-axis, presence of carbonate type A and B, and length of cracks forming in enamel. Additionally, variations in mineral properties within dental tissues contribute to their mechanical performance, with organic tooth matter responsible for tissue elasticity and resistance to deformation, while the inorganic matter provides mechanical resistance and substance. Understanding these properties helps in developing new biomaterials for dental applications and maintaining oral health.