enamel

Question 1

what is the name for enamel formation?

Answer 1

amelogenesis

Question 2

when does amelogenesis occur?

Answer 2

after the first establishment of dentine, via cells known as ameloblasts

Question 3

what is the first stage of enamel formation?

Answer 3

proteins and organic matrix form partially mineralised enamel

Question 4

what is the second stage of enamel formation?

Answer 4

enamel mineralisation completed

Question 5

what type of cells are ameloblasts?

Answer 5

polarised columnar cells

Question 6

is enamel formed inwards or outwards?

Answer 6

outwards

Question 7

what is the basic unit of enamel?

Answer 7

enamel rods

Question 8

where are enamel rods found?

Answer 8

running dfrom the amelodentinal junction to the surface of the tooth

Question 9

what do enamel rods consist of?

Answer 9

hydroxyapaptite

Question 10

what structure form enamel rods?

Answer 10

crystallites

Question 11

what is the hydroxyapatite content of enamel?

Answer 11

95% weight, 90% vol

Question 12

what is the water content of enamel?

Answer 12

4% weight, 5-10% vol

Question 13

what is the organic matrix content of enamel?

Answer 13

1% weight, 1-2% vol

Question 14

describe the surface of enamel

Answer 14

smooth, may contain pitts and fissures

Question 15

what are pits/fissures?

Answer 15

deep grooves on chewing surface of teeth