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 Human tooth The human teeth function to mechanically break down items of food by cutting and crushing them in preparation for swallowing and digesting. Humans have four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each with a specific function. The incisors cut the food, the canines tear the food and the molars and premolars crush the food. The roots of teeth are embedded in the maxilla (upper jaw) or the mandible (lower jaw) and are covered by gums. Teeth are made of multiple tissues of varying density and hardness. Teeth are among the most distinctive (and long-lasting) features of