Your teeth are much more complex than you may think! They’re made up of several different parts that give them their function and help keep your mouth healthy. Knowing the basic anatomy of a tooth will not only impress your Doral dentist but can also help you have a better understanding of what’s going on inside your mouth.
Major Parts of a Tooth
The crown and the root are the two major parts of a tooth. The crown is the top portion of the tooth that helps you chew and, depending on where it’s located, has different shapes. The incisors are sharp and made to cut into food, and the molars are flat and made to break down food.
The root is located below the gum line and is anchored to your jawbone to keep your teeth in place. It’s what helps your teeth withstand the force of biting and chewing.
Materials That Make Up the Tooth
The outside of your tooth is made up of several materials that protect the inside and give the tooth its function. Each has an important role in the health of your teeth and mouth. These materials are:
Enamel
This is the outer layer of your tooth that covers the crown. It’s mostly made of a rock-hard mineral known as calcium phosphate. Your enamel is the hardest and most mineralized substance in your entire body!
Dentin
Dentin is the layer underneath your tooth’s enamel surface. It makes up most of your tooth’s structure and communicates with the nerves of your teeth. If you notice sensitivity to hot or cold items, it means your enamel might be damaged, and your dentin is exposed.
Pulp
Your pulp is the soft tissue in the center of the tooth, which contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. It’s the only living part of your tooth and provides nourishment for your teeth.
Cementum
This layer of connective tissue binds your roots to the gums and jawbone. Your cementum is a substance that covers your roots and helps prevent premature tooth loss.
Let Our Doral Dentist Teach You More About Your Teeth!
Now that you know the role of each part of your tooth, you’ll have a better understanding of how certain oral health conditions occur. If you want to keep your teeth healthy, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with Smile and Dental Co today. We’re happy to help you care for the complexities of your teeth to ensure you have a healthy smile for a long time.
