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Maturation of Enamel
The ameloblasts (A) in this region of the tooth are engaged in maturation of the enamel (B) and are no longer secretory. During the maturation phase of enamel formation, the interface between the enamel and ameloblast is rough (C). During maturation the in-organic components (calcium and phosphates) increase from 25-30% to about 95% by weight. The organic components of enamel decrease from 30% (2/3 of which is protein) to about 1% (1/2 of which is protein). Water also decreases from about 33% to 4%. Enamel is the hardest tissue in the body.
Legend
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A - ameloblasts |
D - D-E junction |
Lecture Notes
