Structure and properties of enamel and dentin

This chapter addresses the mineralized tissues of teeth – enamel and dentin – and how they develop into structural components with unique physical properties. Tooth structure includes an epithelium-derived outer shell of enamel that is highly mineralized, hard, stiff and wear resistant. This is supported both mechanically and biochemically by a mesenchyme-derived dentin, which is vital, less mineralized, softer and more compliant. The dentin is maintained by the dental pulp, which is cellular and innervated, and has a vascular plexus.