Tooth Anatomy
The teeth are the hardest substances in the human body. Besides being essential for chewing, the teeth play an important role in speech. Parts of the teeth include:
• Enamel: The hardest, white outer part of the tooth. Enamel is mostly made of calcium phosphate, a rock-hard mineral.
• Dentin: A layer underlying the enamel. It is a hard tissue that contains microscopic tubes. When the enamel is damaged, heat or cold can enter the tooth through these paths and cause sensitivity or pain.
• Pulp: The softer, living inner structure of teeth. Blood vessels and nerves run through the pulp of the teeth.
• Cementum: A layer of connective tissue that binds the roots of the teeth firmly to the gums and jawbone.
• Periodontal ligament: Tissue that helps to hold the teeth tightly against the jaw.
There are four types of teeth, and each plays an important role in how you eat, drink, and speak. The different types include:
· Incisors. These are the chisel-shaped teeth that help you cut up food.
· Canines. These pointy teeth allow you to tear and grasp food.
· Premolars. The two points on each premolar help you crush and tear food.
· Molars. Multiple points on the top surface of these teeth help you chew and grind food.
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