Hyaline layer of Hopewell-Smith Hyaline layer of Hopewell-Smith In tooth development, the hyaline layer of Hopewell-Smith is the most peripheral layer of initially unmineralized dentin that forms immediately subjacent to the cementodentinal junction (CDJ). It eventually mineralizes, but not before the rest of the dentin is already mineralized. It is 0.5-0.8 µm thick and contains enamel matrix-like protein as well as the proteins one would expect to find in dentin. It is into this hyaline layer that the initial fibers of the periodontal ligament embed themselves. The hyaline layer aids cementum in binding to the dentin. The rationale behind the use of enamel matrix
Human tooth ligaments include osteoblasts, osteoclasts, fibroblasts, macrophages, cementoblasts, and epithelial cell rests of Malassez. Consisting of mostly Type I and III collagen, the fibers are grouped in bundles and named according to their location. The groups of fibers are named alveolar crest, horizontal, oblique, periapical, and interradicular fibers. The nerve supply generally enters from the bone apical to the tooth and forms a network around the tooth toward the crest of the gingiva. When pressure is exerted on a tooth, such as during chewing or biting, the tooth moves slightly in its socket and puts tension on the periodontal ligaments. The