The enamel is a thin outer translucent covering of the tooth that protects the tooth. Learn everything about its anatomy now on Kenhub! Tooth enamel is the protective outer covering of each of your teeth. It shields your tooth crown (the part you can see above your gums) and the delicate inner layers of your tooth from damage. ENAMEL definition: 1. a decorative glass-like substance that is melted onto clay, metal, or glass objects, and then…. Learn more. Enamel is a durable glass coating applied to surfaces, like metal, creating a glossy, long-lasting finish favored for artistic expression.