Dentin is the second layer of a tooth, located beneath the enamel and surrounding the pulp.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Dentin constitutes the bulk of a tooth's structure. Its position between the hard enamel (outermost layer) and the soft pulp (innermost layer) is crucial for the tooth's overall health and function. It is a calcified tissue composed of tiny tubules that radiate outward from the pulp.
Here's a simple visual representation:
| Layer | Position | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Enamel | Outermost layer | Hard, protective covering |
| Dentin | Second layer | Calcified tissue forming the bulk of the tooth |
| Pulp | Innermost layer | Contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue |
Dentin's structure and location make it vital for:
- Support: Providing structural support to the enamel.
- Sensitivity: Transmitting stimuli to the pulp, resulting in tooth sensitivity to temperature changes or pressure.
- Protection: Shielding the pulp from external damage.
