Hydroxyapatite (Tooth Enamel) (HAP)

Tooth enamel is the most highly mineralized tissue in the human body, primarily composed of hydroxyapatite crystals arranged in a complex prismatic structure [1]. It functions as a protective barrier for the tooth's internal structures and provides the necessary hardness for chewing [2]. Demineralized enamel surfaces represent a pathological state where the mineral matrix has been depleted by organic acids, creating porosities that can lead to dental caries or hypersensitivity [3]. Pharmacological interventions target these surfaces to facilitate remineralization, primarily through the application of fluoride, which promotes the formation of fluorapatite to increase acid resistance [4]. Modern treatments also include biomimetic materials like synthetic hydroxyapatite and calcium-phosphate-based systems that physically and chemically restore the enamel's mineral content [5]. Sources: [1] StatPearls (Histology, Enamel); [2] NIH/NIDCR (Tooth Decay); [3] PubMed (PMID: 22403978); [4] Journal of Dental Research (PMID: 10670895); [5] Nature Reviews (Biomimetic remineralization).

Other names

Dental enamelDemineralized enamel surfaceCarbonated hydroxyapatiteEnamelumTooth mineral

Promotion of remineralization through ion exchange, formation of acid-resistant fluorapatite, and physical occlusion of porous enamel surfaces to restore mineral density and structural integrity.