Amelogenesis

Question 1

the chemical composition of enamel with specific reference to the structure of the major chemical component, hydroxyapatite.

Question 2

the part of the tooth germ that gives origin to the enamel and explain from which germ layer enamel originates.

Question 3

where the ameloblasts obtain their blood supply from.

Question 4

Describe each of the functional stages of the ameloblast during amelogenesis with
specific reference to the role of the ameloblast in each stage.

Question 5

Describe the secretory stage of amelogenesis and explain the clinical relevance
thereof.

Question 6

Describe the microscopic structure of enamel and explain how the Tomes’ process
influence the final structure.

Question 7

Describe prismatic and aprismatic enamel with regard to its development, location,
structure and explain the significance thereof in clinical dentistry

Question 8

Describe the arrangement of hydroxyapatite crystals in enamel rods and interrods
with or without the use of annotated sketches.

Question 9

Describe the composition and functions of the enamel matrix with specific reference
to the general role of enamel proteins.

Question 10

Define and describe modulation of ameloblasts during the maturation stage of
amelogenesis and explain the clinical relevance thereof.

Question 11

Describe the clinical relevance of the protective stage of amelogenesis.

Question 12

Describe the development and composition of the reduced enamel epithelium and
explain its fate after odontogenesis. (

Question 13

Compare the mineralization of enamel with that of bone, cementum and dentin.

Question 14

Describe the relevance and advantages of topical and systemic fluoride application.

Question 15

Describe the possible effects on the enamel structure if more than the optimal fluoride
dosages is administered.

Question 16

Explain the effect of fluoride on the chemical composition of developing and mature enamel.

Question 17

Define the dentino-enamel junction and describe the development, structure and function thereof with specific reference to the anatomical structures that may be encountered in this anatomical area.

Question 18

Define and explain the development and structure of the following enamel structures: the striae of Retzius, cross striations, bands of Hunter and Schreger, gnarled enamel, enamel tufts, lamellae and cracks, enamel spindles.

Question 19

Describe the surface of the enamel, explain how it is formed and how it differs between newly-erupted and adult teeth with or without the use of annotated sketches

Question 20

Compare the permeability of enamel in recently erupted teeth to that of fully mature enamel and explain the differences.

Question 21

Explain the interaction of surface fluoride with enamel of newly erupted teeth versus that of teeth in adult patients and give your opinion on the validity of such an action in clinical dentistry.

Question 22

Explain the age changes you will expect in adult enamel.

Question 23

Define an enamel pearl and explain the formation and clinical implications thereof.

Question 24

Explain the ability of enamel to regenerate/ repair itself. (p. 324, discussion)