noun
- a hard, bone-like tissue that forms the bulk of a tooth, lying beneath the enamel and surrounding the pulp chamber
Usage: also spelled dentine (British English); anatomical term
Examples
- When tooth enamel wears away, the dentin underneath becomes exposed.
- Dentin is softer than enamel but harder than the pulp of the tooth.
- Sensitivity to hot and cold foods can occur when dentin is exposed.
- The dentist explained that dentin contains microscopic tubules connected to the nerve.
- Cavities that penetrate through the enamel can reach the dentin layer.