hypocalcification

Hypocalcification is a condition where there is insufficient calcium, resulting in the production of soft enamel in teeth. This is distinct from hypocalcemia, which is a deficiency of calcium in the blood.12

In anatomy, enamel is the hardest tissue in the body, protecting the crown of teeth in mammals. It is primarily composed of apatite crystals containing calcium and phosphate. Enamel is not living and contains no nerves. Its hardness varies, being densest at the biting edges.1

Hypocalcification can occur if there is insufficient calcium during tooth development, leading to a soft enamel. This can be caused by factors such as excessive fluorine in the diet. In contrast, hypoplasia is a different enamel malformation where the matrix is insufficient, resulting in a lack of enamel, often due to infection or malnutrition during development.1