Enamel surface of tooth

Tooth enamel is the most mineralized and hardest tissue in the human body, covering the anatomic crown of teeth as a thin, hard, and highly mineralized layer. Composed of approximately 95–98% inorganic calcium phosphate (as carbonated hydroxyapatite), about 1% organic matrix (mainly enamel-specific proteins: amelogenin, enamelin, ameloblastin), and the remainder water, enamel provides structural integrity, mechanical protection, and resistance to wear and acid attack during chewing and exposure to foods. Enamel does not contain cells, blood vessels, or nerves, and cannot regenerate after formation. Its crystalline rods are susceptible to demineralization by acid and are thus the focus of preventive dental treatments.

Other names

EnamelTooth enamelDental enamel

Fluoride: promotes remineralization and inhibits demineralization of enamel hydroxyapatite; Calcium phosphate: provides ions for remineralization; Sealants: form physical barrier over enamel