Chapter:07
Enamel
Q1. Ultrastructural studies of enamel formation by electron microscopy have added greatly to
the understanding of complex process. What events are taking place in maturation proper of
enamel formation
Draw and label the two different histological structures of ameloblasts at the stage of enamel
maturation.
In the maturation stage of enamel formation, the following events occur:
• Reduction in Organic Matrix: There is a significant reduction in the organic matrix
(amelogenin and enamelin) and water content. The enamel becomes more mineralized.
• Increased Mineral Content: The enamel crystals(hydroxyapetite crystals)grow in size
and become more densely packed. This mineralization continues until the enamel is fully matured.
• Ameloblast Activity: Ameloblasts undergo changes; they become less active in
secretion and more involved in modifying the enamel matrix by removing proteins and water.
Diagram:
Q2. Structure of Dental Enamel:
Enamel is composed of tightly packed, long, thin hydroxyapatite crystals. These crystals are
organized into enamel rods (prisms) that run from the dentin-enamel junction to the enamel surface.
Enamel is highly mineralized, with a composition of approximately 95% inorganic material, 4%
organic material, and 1% water.
Q3.What are Desired Effects of Acid Etching?
Acid etching creates a rough surface on enamel by removing the inorganic content to create
microporosities. This increases the surface area for bonding and improves the adhesion of
restorative materials to the tooth structure.
Q4. During the maturative stage of amelogenesis explain the changes that take place in the:
a) structure and function of ameloblast
b) Structure of enamel
• a) Ameloblasts:
• Structure: Ameloblasts become shorter and less active in the production of enamel matrix
proteins.
• Function: The focus shifts from matrix secretion to the removal of organic material and
water from the enamel, enhancing mineralization.
• b) Enamel Structure:
• Composition: Enamel becomes less organic and more mineralized.
• Appearance: Enamel crystals grow larger and more densely packed, resulting in a harder
and more durable structure.
Q5. Describe the mechanism of Crystal Growth of enamel,and what are the Influencing
Factors which influence the crystal growth
• Mechanism: Enamel crystals grow through a process of ion exchange and deposition.
Calcium and phosphate ions from the saliva are deposited onto the enamel matrix, promoting
crystal growth.
• Factors: Temperature, pH, the presence of fluoride, and the availability of calcium and
phosphate ions can influence crystal growth.
Q6. Definitions:
• a) Gnarled Enamel: Enamel that is twisted or interlaced, often found at the cusps of
teeth. It contributes to the strength and resistance to wear.
• b) Cross Striations: Fine, horizontal lines in enamel that represent daily rhythmic
variations in enamel deposition.
• c) Enamel Tufts: Hypocalcified areas in enamel that appear as dark lines or tufts
extending from the dentin-enamel junction into the enamel.
Q7. During the maturative stage of amelogenesis explain the changes that take place in the
a. Structure and function of ameloblasts
b. Structure of enamel
(Repeated Question, Same as Q4)
Q8. Give the Events occuring During the Organizing Stage?
• Initial Mineralization: Early mineral deposition begins, and enamel matrix proteins are
secreted.
• Ameloblast Function: Ameloblasts form the enamel matrix and start mineralizing it, but
are not yet in the full maturation phase.
Q9. Short Notes on
a. Bands of hunter and Schreger
b. Surface of enamel .
c.Age changes in enamel
d.Enamel rods
• Bands of Hunter and Schreger: Alternating light and dark bands in enamel visible
under a microscope. They represent variations in the orientation of enamel rods.
• Surface of Enamel: The surface is smooth and covered with a thin organic layer. It is
subject to wear and can be affected by erosive processes.
• Age Changes in Enamel: Includes increased formation of enamel cracks, reduced
translucency, and increased brittleness due to changes in mineral content and organic matrix.
• Enamel Rods: Rods (or prisms) are the basic structural units of enamel, extending from
the dentin-enamel junction to the enamel surface.
Q10. What are the Age Changes in Enamel?
• Decreased Translucency: Due to increased mineralization and accumulation of
secondary mineralization products.
• Formation of Enamel Cracks: Resulting from wear and stress over time.
• Increased Brittleness: As enamel undergoes mineralization changes and may become
more prone to fractures.
Q11. Define the following terms related to enamel and amelogenesis?
a) Enamel nieche
b) Hunter Schreger Bands
c) Enamel lamellae
d) Enamel spindle
• a) Enamel Niche: Areas in the enamel where enamel rods or crystals exhibit
irregularities or are surrounded by a different mineralization pattern.
• b) Hunter-Schreger Bands: Alternating light and dark bands in enamel visible under
polarized light due to differences in the orientation of enamel rods.
• c) Enamel Lamellae: Long, thin, hypocalcified areas extending from the enamel surface
into the enamel matrix.
• d) Enamel Spindle: Structures found within enamel that are remnants of odontoblast
processes.
Q12.On a longitudinal section through the crown of a tooth, draw and label the following
microscopic structure of enamel?
a. Enamel rods
b. Striae of retzius
c. CrossStriations
Q13. Draw and label an ameloblast with ruffeled border
Q14. Draw and label the two two different histological structures of ameloblasts at the stage of
enamel maturation?
(Repeated Question, Same as Q1)
Q15. What are the desired effects achieved by acid etching?
(Same as Q3)
Q16.Write down the Structural and Organizational Features of Enamel?
• Highly Mineralized: Composed of approximately 95% inorganic material.
• Enamel Rods: Basic structural units of enamel.
• Prismatic Organization: Rods are organized into prisms that extend from the
dentin-enamel junction to the surface.
• Striae of Retzius and Cross Striations: Patterns of enamel formation and development.
Q17. Regulation of pH During Enamel Formation?
• Role of Ameloblasts: They regulate the pH by secreting ions and buffering agents to
maintain an optimal environment for enamel mineralization.
• Influence of Saliva: Saliva provides a buffering effect and maintains pH balance.
Q18. Definitions:
• Epithelial Pearls: Small, rounded clusters of epithelial cells found in the enamel organ.
• Stratum Intermedium: A layer of cells in the enamel organ situated between the inner
enamel epithelium and the stellate reticulum, assisting in enamel formation.
Q19. Describe Four Stages of Enamel Mineralization?
1. Presecretory Stage: Initial formation and organization of ameloblasts and enamel
matrix.
2. Secretory Stage: Active secretion of enamel matrix proteins and initial mineral
deposition.
3. Maturation Stage: Increased mineralization, reduction of organic content, and crystal
growth.
4. Post-maturation Stage: Final adjustments in mineralization and enamel hardening.
Q20. What are the Functions of Reduced Enamel Organ and what is Its Fate?
Functions of the Reduced Enamel Organ:
1. Protective Role: It helps protect the enamel surface during the tooth’s eruption through
the oral cavity, acting as a barrier against mechanical and chemical damage.
2. Facilitation of Eruption: It plays a role in the final stages of enamel maturation and
facilitates the eruption of the tooth by aiding the movement of the tooth through the gingiva.
3. Regulation of Enamel Maturation: It helps regulate the final stages of enamel
mineralization and removes residual enamel matrix proteins.
Fate of the Reduced Enamel Organ:
Fate: It ultimately degenerates and is shed from the tooth surface, leaving behind the fully formed
enamel.
Answers compiled by:
Wasiq Razzaq
Sr No: 28
Roll No: 27031
