The anatomy of the tooth can be broken down into two main parts, the crown and the root. The crown is the part of the tooth that is seen in the mouth and is located above the gumline. It is made up of the enamel, dentin and pulp. The enamel is the white firm covering over the crown of the tooth. It is the hardest material in the body as it does not have a nerve supply. Since it does not have a blood supply, it does not cause discomfort if chipped or damaged. But it cannot heal or repair itself as bone or dentin can.
The dentin makes up the majority of the tooth. It is a cream colored, hard material. It is located right below the enamel. The purpose of the dentin is to surround and protect the nerves and blood vessels that make up the pulp in the crown and roots. Dentin is considered vital since pain can be felt in this layer and it can also form more if necessary. When dentin is exposed by caries, abrasion, erosion or a fracture, the tooth becomes sensitive to temperature changes and feels soreness.
The nerves and blood vessels of the tooth are called the pulp. It is considered the heart of the tooth since it encompasses the root canals and the pulp chamber in the crown of the tooth. When the pulp is exposed to infection by decay or injury, it will die and cause severe pain. As a result an abscess will develop on the root indicating the need for root canal treatment or extraction.
The roots are implanted in the tooth socket located in the jaw bone. Each root has a root canal for the nerves and blood vessels to pass through. They are sheltered by a thin calcified covering called cementum which covers the dentin of the roots. The periodontal ligament holds the roots in place and attaches them to the alveolar bone of the jaw. The ligament provides an elastic cushion between the tooth and the bone which allows slight movement so the teeth are not rigidly joined to the bone.
Resource Area:
DISCLAIMER: Above is a GENERAL OVERVIEW and may or may not reflect specific practices, courses and/or services associated with ANY ONE particular doctor(s) that is or is not affiliated with Top 3 Dentists Inc.
Copyright 2008 TOP 3 DENTISTS INC. All rights reserved.
Notice: Publishers are free to use this article on an ezine or website; provided the article is reprinted in its entirety, including copyright and disclaimer, and ALL links remain intact and active.
Signature:
Top3Dentists is the best dental resource for top dentists in US. Find top johns island cosmetic dentist and laguna niguel cosmetic dentist at Top3Dentists and know the best dentist in your city.
