Oral Anatomy & Histology: Tooth Tissues

These flashcards highlight key vocabulary and concepts related to tooth tissues, enamel, dentin, and pulp, bracing the student's understanding for the exam.

Enamel

The hardest tissue in the body, composed of approximately 96% inorganic materials and 1% organic materials.

Dentin

The bulk of the tooth, softer than enamel, made of about 70% inorganic substances and 20% organic substances.

Pulp

The non-mineralized tissue of a tooth containing blood vessels, lymphatic tissue, and nerves.

Ameloblasts

Cells that produce enamel.

Attrition

The wear of hard tissue as a result of tooth-to-tooth contact.

Abrasion

Enamel loss due to friction caused by excessive toothbrushing or using abrasive toothpaste.

Erosion

Enamel loss resulting from chemical means, such as acidic beverages or conditions.

Sclerotic Dentin

Dentin that becomes denser in response to stimuli or trauma.

Odontoblasts

Cells that produce dentin and are located at the periphery of the pulp.

Dentinal Tubules

Long tubes running from the dentin-enamel junction to the pulp, containing odontoblastic processes.

Pulpitis

Inflammation of the pulp, which can cause severe pain and potentially lead to a periapical abscess.

Enamel Lamellae

Partially mineralized vertical sheets of enamel matrix that extend from the DEJ to the outer occlusal surface.

Enamel Tufts

Small, dark brushes with bases near the DEJ, representing short dentinal tubules.

Enamel Spindles

Calcified tissue structures extending from the dentin into the enamel, associated with pain and sensitivity.

Cementum

A tissue covering the roots of teeth that will be discussed when covering the periodontium.

Korff's Fibers

Fibrous substances in the pulp that are part of the dentin matrix formation.

Denticles

Mineralized bodies in the pulp, also known as pulp stones.

Lymphocytes

Specialized white blood cells in the pulp involved in the defense mechanism.

Dentinal Hypersensitivity

Sensitivity experienced when the dentinal tubules are exposed, leading to pain.