Mohs hardness scale assigns enamel a hardness of approximately which range?

• A. 3-4
• B. 5-6
• C. 2-3
• D. 6-7

Answer: (B)

Mohs hardness scale measures scratch resistance, so understanding enamel’s place on that scale helps you predict how easily it can be scratched. Enamel’s mineral content gives it a hardness around the middle to upper part of the scale. It is harder than dentin and cementum, which sit lower on the scale, but not as hard as materials rated around 6 or higher. Many dental references place enamel near 5, with some variability up toward 6 depending on conditions. That’s why the range around 5–6 best matches enamel’s true hardness. The other ranges describe softer tissues or much harder minerals and don’t fit enamel as well.