Enamel erosion is a gateway to a host of oral health issues, including tooth decay and chipped or cracked teeth, often resulting in costly and uncomfortable dental visits.

Fossil and genetic evidence indicates the enamel in our teeth originated in the scales of ancient fish that lived more than 400 million years ago, scientists say.

Enamel is made during tooth formation by special cells called ameloblasts. The cells die off when teeth are finished growing, leaving the body no way to repair or regenerate damaged enamel.

“We know that teeth get more brittle as people age, especially near the very outer surface, which is where cracks start,” said lead author Jack Grimm, UW doctoral student in materials science and ...