Enamel and dentin surface

The enamel and dentin surfaces represent the mineralized structural components of the tooth and serve as the primary site of action for preventive and restorative dental pharmacology. Enamel is the outermost, highly calcified layer composed of approximately 96% hydroxyapatite, providing a hard, protective barrier against mechanical and chemical challenges [1]. Dentin is the underlying, less mineralized tissue that contains organic collagen and microscopic tubules extending to the dental pulp, making it sensitive to external stimuli [2]. These surfaces are targeted by therapeutic agents like fluoride, which promotes the remineralization of hydroxyapatite and the formation of fluorapatite to increase resistance to acid-induced decay [3]. Additionally, treatments for dentin hypersensitivity focus on the physical or chemical occlusion of dentinal tubules to block fluid movement and subsequent nerve activation [4]. Understanding the physicochemical properties of these surfaces is essential for the development of adhesives, remineralizing agents, and desensitizers used in clinical dentistry [5]. [1] StatPearls, Histology, Enamel (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538332/) [2] StatPearls, Dentin Hypersensitivity (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK544332/) [3] NIH, Fluoride: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals (https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Fluoride-HealthProfessional/) [4] Journal of Dental Research, Dentin Remineralization (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26099238/) [5] Nature Reviews Disease Primers, Dental Caries (https://www.nature.com/articles/nrdp201730)

Other names

Tooth hard tissueDental mineral surfaceEnamel-dentin complex

Remineralization of hydroxyapatite, formation of fluorapatite, and occlusion of dentinal tubules.