Enamel Spindles

Enamel Spindles

Question 1. Enamel spindles.
Answer:

• Before the formation of enamel, some developing odontoblastic processes extend into the ameloblastic layer and become trapped to form enamel spindles.
• They reveal the crystals of dentin & enamel intermix.
• They are best seen in the longitudinal section.
• They are hypo-mineralized or partially mineralized structures.

“Understanding enamel spindles through FAQs: Structure, functions, and uses explained”

Enamel spindles Site:

• Mainly found in cusp tip regions.

Enamel spindles Extend:

• From odontoblastic process into enamel epithelium

Enamel spindles Direction:

• Right angle to the surface of dentin.

“Importance of studying enamel spindles for dental students: Questions explained”

Question 2. Age changes of enamel.
Answer:

1. Surface of enamel:

• Attrition of occlusal surfaces and proximal contact points.
• Loss of vertical dimension of the crown
• Loss of rod ends and perikymata
• Facial and lingual surfaces lose their structure more rapidly than proximal surfaces.
• Anterior teeth lose their structure more rapidly than posterior teeth.

2. Color:

• Teeth darken with age due to the addition of organic material to enamel from the environment.

“Factors influencing success with enamel spindle studies: Q&A”

3. Permeability:

• Enamel becomes less permeable with age.
• The crystal increases in size and acquires more ions with age.
• This decreases the pores between them causing a reduction in permeability.

“Common challenges in mastering enamel spindle notes effectively: FAQs provided”

4. Caries incidence:

• There is an apparent reduction in the incidence of caries.
• This is due to a progressive increase in the fluoride content of the enamel.