True or False: Dentin is softer than enamel.

Dentin is indeed softer than enamel. Enamel is the hardest substance in the body, composed primarily of hydroxyapatite crystals, which give it exceptional strength and durability. This hardness is essential for protecting the underlying structures of the teeth from wear and damage during chewing and biting.

In contrast, dentin, which forms the bulk of the tooth beneath the enamel, contains a higher proportion of organic material and less mineralization, making it relatively softer. The softness of dentin allows it to provide some flexibility to the tooth structure, which is necessary to absorb shock and prevent fractures. Understanding this difference is crucial in dentistry, as the varying hardness levels impact methods of handling and restoring damaged teeth.