The size of dentin, specifically referring to the diameter of its collagen fibers, is typically around 80-100 nm.
Dentin, the primary substance of teeth, is a mineralized tissue composed of approximately 70% inorganic material (hydroxyapatite), 20% organic material (mostly collagen), and 10% water. The collagen fibers, primarily Type I collagen, provide the organic framework upon which the mineral crystals are deposited. The size of these collagen fibers is a key characteristic of dentin's structure.
Here's a breakdown:
- Collagen Fibers: The main organic component of dentin.
- Diameter: Typically falls within the range of 80-100 nanometers.
- Variations: While the 80-100 nm range is typical for dentin collagen, collagen fiber diameters can vary significantly in other tissues.
Therefore, when discussing the "size of dentin" in terms of its collagen fiber diameter, the accepted range is generally 80-100 nm.
