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Dental anatomy is a field that studies the structural and functional characteristics of teeth that are specifically designed to perform various functions in humans. While each type of tooth performs a specific function, together they contribute to the complex digestive process of cutting, shredding, chewing and grinding food. The external and internal structure of the teeth is perfectly adapted to perform these functions.
Most people start adulthood with 32 teeth, not including any teeth replaced with braces. There are four types of teeth, each playing an important role in the way you eat, drink, and speak.
The different types include:
Incisors. These are sharp-shaped teeth that help you cut food. Canines. These pointed teeth allow you to tear and grasp food. Premolars. Each premolar has two cusps that help you crush and tear food. Molars. The multiple cusps on the surface of these teeth help you chew and grind food.
Continue reading to learn more about the anatomy and structure of your teeth, and conditions that can affect them. We will also provide some dental health tips.
The root is the part of the tooth that extends into the bone and holds the tooth in place. It makes up about two-thirds of the tooth.
It consists of several parts:
Root canal. The root canal is a passage containing a substance called pulp. Cementum. This bone-like substance covers the root of the tooth. It is attached to the periodontal ligament. Periodontal ligament. The periodontal ligament is made up of connective tissue and collagen fibers. It contains both nerves and blood vessels. Together with the cementum, the periodontal ligament attaches the teeth to their sockets. Nerves and blood vessels. Blood vessels provide nutrients to the periodontal ligament, while nerves help control the amount of force used during chewing. Jawbone. The jawbone, also known as the alveolar bone, contains the tooth sockets and surrounds the roots of the teeth, holding them in place.
The neck, also called the gingival line, is the area between the cementum and the enamel.
It has three main parts:
Gums. The gums, or gingiva, are the fleshy, pink connective tissue that attaches to the neck of the tooth and the cementum. Pulp. The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth. It consists of tiny blood vessels and nerve tissue. Pulp cavity. Also called the pulp chamber, this area within the crown contains the pulp.
The crown of a tooth is the visible part. It consists of three parts:
Anatomic crown. This is the top part of a tooth. It is usually the only part you can see. Enamel. Enamel is the outermost layer of a tooth. As the hardest tissue in your body, it helps protect teeth from bacteria. It also enables your teeth to withstand chewing pressure. Dentin. Dentin is the mineralized tissue beneath the enamel. It extends from the crown to the neck and root, protecting the teeth from heat and cold.
Your teeth, which perform many functions in daily life, are susceptible to various conditions.
Dental cavities are small holes that form on the surface of a tooth due to the accumulation of bacteria and acid. If left untreated, cavities can progress deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp. Cavities can cause problems such as pain, sensitivity to hot and cold, and can lead to infections or tooth loss.
Pulpitis refers to inflammation of the pulp, often due to an untreated cavity. Main symptoms include severe pain and sensitivity in the affected tooth. This condition can eventually lead to an infection, causing an abscess to form at the tooth's root.
Periodontal disease, sometimes called gum disease, is an infection of the gums. Common symptoms include red, swollen, bleeding, or receding gums. It can also cause bad breath, pain, sensitivity, and loose teeth. Smoking, certain medications, and poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of gum disease.
Malocclusion is the misalignment of teeth. This can cause crowding, and push the lower or upper jaw forward. While often hereditary, it can also be caused by thumb-sucking, prolonged use of pacifiers or bottles, impacted or missing teeth, and poorly fitted dental appliances. Malocclusion is usually corrected with braces.
Bruxism refers to the grinding or clenching of teeth. People with bruxism are often unaware of it and many do it while sleeping. Over time, bruxism can wear down tooth enamel, causing damage and even tooth loss. It can also cause tooth, jaw, and ear pain, and may damage the jaw joint, preventing it from opening and closing properly.
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can cause toothache that radiates to the jaw, ear, or neck. Other symptoms include tooth sensitivity, fever, swollen or tender lymph nodes, and swelling in your cheeks or face. If you suspect you have a tooth abscess, see a dentist or doctor immediately. If left untreated, the infection can spread to your sinuses or brain.
Dental erosion is the loss and dissolution of enamel due to acid or friction. Acidic foods and drinks can cause this. Acid reflux from gastrointestinal conditions can also cause it. Additionally, prolonged dry mouth can cause friction, leading to dental erosion. Common signs of dental erosion include pain, sensitivity, and discoloration.
Tooth impaction usually occurs when there is not enough space for a new tooth to emerge, often affecting wisdom teeth. It can also happen if a permanent tooth is ready to come in before a baby tooth falls out.
Follow these tips to keep your teeth healthy and strong, avoiding many dental conditions:
