Tooth hydroxyapatite and dentinal tubules (HAP)

Tooth hydroxyapatite is the primary inorganic constituent of dental enamel and dentin, providing the structural hardness required for mastication (StatPearls, 2023). Dentinal tubules are microscopic, fluid-filled channels that traverse the dentin, housing odontoblastic processes and facilitating communication between the pulp and the outer tooth layers (Journal of Conservative Dentistry, 2014). These structures are the primary targets for preventive and restorative dental pharmacology. Therapeutic agents like fluoride interact with hydroxyapatite to enhance acid resistance and promote remineralization (CDC, 2001), while desensitizing agents aim to occlude dentinal tubules to prevent fluid movement that triggers pain according to the hydrodynamic theory (Brännström, 1963). Understanding the interaction between these mineral and structural components is essential for treating dental caries and dentin hypersensitivity.

Other names

Dental hydroxyapatiteDentin tubulesCalcium hydroxyapatiteEnamel mineralDentinal canaliculi

The primary mechanisms include the remineralization of hydroxyapatite to form fluorapatite, which is more resistant to acid dissolution (Journal of Dental Research, 1990), and the physical occlusion of dentinal tubules to block the hydrodynamic flow of fluid, thereby preventing the stimulation of pulpal nerve fibers (Journal of Clinical Dentistry, 2010).