Parts of the Tooth for Pre-K

Proper dental heath starts as soon as kids get teeth and should include general information, as well as care instructions. Teaching preschoolers or Pre-K kids about the different parts that make up their teeth and how each part functions can help them understand why dental health is so important. Use an enlarged, artificial tooth or photograph as a visual. Point out and discuss the function of each part of the tooth to help children understand the crucial importance of keeping teeth healthy.

Two Main Parts

• The tooth root usually breaks and dissolves when a baby tooth comes out.

  The two main parts of the tooth that preschoolers can easily identify from an artificial tooth or an enlarged photo are the crown and the root. The crown of the tooth is the visible white part that appears on top of the gums. The crown is attached to the root. The root extends down into the gum and is anchored into the jaw bone. The root keeps the crown of the tooth firmly in place in so the crown can chew and break down food.

Parts of the Crown

• There are three parts that make up the crown of the tooth. The shiny, hard, white outside of the crown is called the enamel. The enamel must be hard to keep harmful substances out of the tooth and to protect the inside of the crown. Inside the crown is the dentin and the pulp. The dentin is just below the enamel and makes up the biggest part of the tooth. It's also a hard, protective layer but is not as hard as the enamel. Below the dentin is the pulp of the tooth, which contains the nerves and blood supply. The pulp extends from the crown down into the tooth root.

Parts of the Root

• The anchor of the tooth, called the root, contains a portion of the pulp, as well as the cementum. The root forms below the gum line and makes up about 2/3 of the length of the tooth. Cementum makes up the majority of the tooth root. It covers the root and helps it attach to the bone. A cushiony substance called the periodontal ligament securely connects the cementum to the jaw bone.

Gums and Jaw Bone

• Broccoli and spinach are rich sources of calcium for gum and jaw bone health.

  Although the gums and jaw bone are not parts of the tooth itself, they play pivotal roles for the teeth. The gums are the pink, spongy substance that surround the tooth crown and help hold the teeth in place. Flossing between the teeth keeps the gums free of bacteria. Without healthy, strong gums, teeth become loose and at risk for bacteria and infection. The jaw bone is where teeth are formed and anchored. Getting plenty of calcium, from dairy products and dark green, leafy vegetables can help build strong jaw bones and healthy gums.