Dentin is sometimes confused with enamel and pulp. Dentin is quite distinct from these other portions of the tooth. It is a calcified tissue beneath the tooth enamel. The enamel serves the purpose of protecting the dentin. Yet dentin also plays an important role in oral health as outlined below. Let's take a closer look at this portion of the tooth.
Nearly three-quarters of dentin is made of the mineral known as hydroxyapatite. About one-quarter of dentin is comprised of organic materials. The remaining portion of dentin is made up of 10 percent water. If the enamel wears away and the dentin is exposed, the tooth will become quite sensitive. Take a look at exposed dentin and you will see it is yellow in color. Dentin is similar to bone yet it is not as hard as bone. In fact, teeth are made up of three different thick dentin layers. The first is primary. The next two layers are referred to as secondary dentin and tertiary dentin. The outermost layer is the primary dentin layer. The secondary layer is created after the tooth root is completely developed. The tertiary dentin forms in response to the presence of a stimulus. Each layer of dentin is essential to tooth health across posterity.
It is not possible to whiten dentin. In some cases, patients have achieved the best possible hue as the color of dentin prevents additional whitening. Though dentin is yellow, it is not easily seen by the naked eye. So do not assume your teeth can be whitened if they are stained or discolored. Meet with your dentist prior to teeth whitening to ensure your dentin does not prevent you from enjoying whitened teeth.
Dentin, enamel, pulp, and cementum are the primary components of human teeth. The outer enamel layer is harder than dentin yet dentin is not as hard as the actual enamel itself. Dentin is the portion of the tooth positioned around the pulp. It connects directly to the pulp within the tooth.
Dentin has tiny tubules, best described as hollow canals. If the protective cover of dentin is lost, these tubules will permit cold and hot foods, sticky foods and acidic foods to stimulate cells and nerves within the tooth. If you experience tooth pain, there is a chance the dentin has been exposed. Exposed dentin will be quite sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages. In fact, even breathing through your mouth can cause pain when dentin is exposed. Brush your teeth in a gentle manner to avoid exposing the dentin. If you have tooth pain, meet with a dentist to determine if this pain is the result of exposed dentin or another oral health issue.
For more information call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213.
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