In dentistry, the Enamel is the hard tissue covering the portion of tooth above the gum line, which is actually the hardest substance in the body. It is hard calcified (mineralized) tissue, almost entirely composed of calcium salts, and is one of the four major tissues that make up the tooth. Its main role is to protect the softer underlying dentin of the tooth and also serves as the surface for chewing, grinding and crushing of food. The normal color of enamel varies from light yellow to grayish white. Enamel varies in thickness over the surface of the tooth and is often thickest at the cusp, which is the pointed portion of the tooth. Most dental restorations involve the removal of enamel to gain access to the underlying decay in the dentin (just beneath the enamel), or to treat inflammation that has developed in the pulp, which is connective tissue that contains blood vessels and nerve tissue.

Note: The definitions on our web site are for reference purposes only and in no way represent any official dental advice. If you are experiencing any symptom defined by a term, you should seek the advice of your dental practitioner.

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