Enamel Composition and Function Quiz

What percentage of enamel is composed of inorganic matter?

Which type of protein is predominantly found in the organic matrix of enamel?

What is the molecular weight of non-amelogenins?

Which of the following proteins is NOT classified as a non-amelogenin?

What role do non-amelogenins play in enamel formation?

What is the primary inorganic component of enamel?

Which ion is NOT typically found in enamel?

What role do trace ions in enamel play?

Which of the following ions is found in the subsurface layers of enamel?

What is the chemical formula for hydroxyapatite?

Enamel Composition

Enamel, the hard outer layer of teeth, contains primarily inorganic matter (96%)
This inorganic matter is primarily calcium phosphate, often in the form of hydroxyapatite crystals.
The organic matrix (4%) also plays a role, made up of proteins and glycoproteins.
Proteins in the enamel matrix are classified as amelogenins and non-amelogenins.
Amelogenins are a group of proteins, rich in proline and hydroxyproline.
Non-amelogenins have a variety of functions and include proteins like enamelins and ameloblastins.
The hydroxyapatite crystals have a hexagonal cross-section.
Various ions like Al, Ba, Cu, and Mo also play a role but the exact role is unknown

Enamel Function

The inorganic component of enamel gives it its hardness and resistance to acid dissolution.
The organic component influences the process of mineralisation.
The enamel surface is hard and resistant to acid dissolution by bacteria and thus prevents easy demineralisation.
The subsurface and deeper layers contain Na, Mg, and CO3 molecules.
These molecules help prevent water penetration and making enamel more resistant.

Test your knowledge on the structure and role of dental enamel. This quiz covers the inorganic and organic components of enamel, their functions, and the significance of various proteins. Explore how enamel contributes to tooth hardness and resistance against acids.