Enamel composition by mass is approximately which of the following?

Enamel composition by mass is approximately which of the following?

• A. 70% mineral
• B. 50% mineral
• C. 80% mineral
• D. 96% mineral

Answer: (D)

Enamel is the most mineralized tissue in the body. By mass it is about 96% mineral, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals arranged in prisms, with only a small amount of organic material and water making up the rest. This extreme mineral content gives enamel its exceptional hardness and wear resistance, while the tiny organic fraction explains why it is brittle rather than tough. For comparison, dentin is around 70% mineral and cementum about 50%, so 96% is the best match for enamel.

Enamel is the most mineralized tissue in the body. By mass it is about 96% mineral, mainly hydroxyapatite crystals arranged in prisms, with only a small amount of organic material and water making up the rest. This extreme mineral content gives enamel its exceptional hardness and wear resistance, while the tiny organic fraction explains why it is brittle rather than tough. For comparison, dentin is around 70% mineral and cementum about 50%, so 96% is the best match for enamel.