Protecting Dentin

Dentin is part of the tooth structure that is found inside of the tooth covered by enamel. Dentin is made up of series of tubules that travel radial to the center. Sometimes, when enamel is worn away, the dentin tubules are revealed which causes the nerve endings at the ends of the tubules to be exposed. The exposed nerve endings are susceptible to hot/cold things in the mouth that can make someone feel pain and discomfort.
Students will design and construct a model using the least amount of materials to protect crayons from melting when in the heated chamber.
 Inside view of a tooth

This Guide provides the instructor information on how to run the design challenge with alternatives for materials and test setups as well as information to help make the design challenge a good educational experience.

Protecting Dentin Video

The video conveys the societal impact of the student’s research that is the basis for the design challenge and will set the problem-solving context for students. The video also  leads students through the design process. It indicates materials available, states what the criteria are for success and any constraints.