The anisotropy and gradient of the elastic modulus and the hardness of teeth were investigated by means of instrumented indentation method. Such properties are attributed to the unique micro- structures of teeth based on scanning electron microscopic analysis. By comparing the relation- ship between the ratio of hardness to the reduced elastic modulus and the ratio of elastic unloading work to the total work of teeth in course of indentation to those of other materials, we found that the material behaviors of teeth display metal-like characteristics rather than ceramics as considered traditionally. These material behaviors and relevant functions are discussed briefly.
BAI KeZHANG TaiHuaYANG ZhiYuSONG FanYANG XiaoDaWANG Kui
