dentin
- Noun:
- The hard, dense, bony tissue forming the main bulk of a tooth, beneath the enamel and surrounding the pulp cavity. It is a calcified material, harder than bone but softer than enamel, that gives the tooth its basic shape and color.
- Noun:
- Cavities must be treated before they penetrate through the enamel and reach the sensitive dentin.
- The dentin layer provides support for the overlying enamel.
- Exposed dentin due to gum recession can lead to tooth sensitivity.
Primary vs. Secondary Dentin: Dentin formed during tooth development is called primary dentin. Secondary dentin is formed more slowly throughout life and can be a response to stimuli like tooth wear or cavities.
- The formation of secondary dentin can help protect the pulp from further decay.
Dentin Tubules: Microscopic channels in dentin that contain fluid and cellular processes. These are responsible for transmitting sensations (like pain from heat or cold) to the nerve in the pulp.
- When enamel is worn away, the dentin tubules become exposed, causing sensitivity.
Dentine: An alternate spelling of "dentin," more common in British English.
- The structure of dentine is similar to that of bone.
Dentinal (adj): Pertaining to or of the nature of dentin.
- The dentinal layer is sensitive to changes in temperature.
- Tooth bone (informal/descriptive): A non-technical term sometimes used to describe dentin due to its bony composition.
- Ivory: Historically, the dentin of elephant tusks and other animals is called ivory, but this is not a direct synonym for human tooth dentin in a medical context.
Dentin hypersensitivity: The clinical condition of pain or discomfort arising from exposed dentin, typically in response to thermal, chemical, or tactile stimuli.
- Special toothpaste can help manage dentin hypersensitivity.
Dentinogenesis: The formation of dentin by cells called odontoblasts.
- Problems during dentinogenesis can lead to developmental tooth defects.
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bone (calcified tissue) surrounding the pulp cavity of a tooth
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a calcareous material harder and denser than bone that comprises the bulk of a tooth
