Dental Anatomy Terms

The structure of human teeth is complex and appropriate care must be given to ensure the anatomy of the tooth remains healthy. Children have 20 primary teeth, 10 in the upper jaw, and 10 in the lower jaw. These are called milk teeth or deciduous teeth. These primary teeth are replaced by up to 32 permanent teeth, which sometimes include four wisdom teeth. These permanent teeth are used every day, and being aware of their structure helps to understand the importance of good dental health.

Enamel

• Enamel is the white shiny substance covering a tooth and is the hardest substance found in the human body. It is made from a calcified substance and its main function is to protect the soft dentin of the tooth. Sugars from food and drink are responsible for the destruction of enamel, and this leads to cavities occurring in the teeth. Enamel can vary in color from a pale yellow to a grayish white, however as enamel is partly translucent, the color of the dentin underneath can affect the color of the tooth.

Dentin

• Dentin is the dental tissue that determines the size and the shape of our teeth. It is made from many different minerals including calcium, and its main function is to protect the pulp of the tooth. Although it is a hard substance, it is susceptible to decay and infection, which can lead to expensive dental treatment.

Pulp

• The pulp is the softest substance in the tooth and can be found in the crown and the root of the tooth. It contains blood vessels and nerves and provides the tooth with nutrients. If the pulp of the tooth becomes damaged, then the tooth has died, and the tooth needs to have the nerves removed and filled with a substance to prevent infection.

Gingiva (gums)

• The gingiva is the area around the base of the teeth. Gingiva is a type of membrane that provides a seal around the tooth. It also occupies space between the teeth. Healthy gingiva should be coral pink in color. Darker gums could be a result of gum disease.

Cementum

• Cementum is a layer of tissue that is calcified and helps to support the tooth in the jaw. It is yellow in color and much softer than both enamel and dentin. Cementum can be exposed if the gums recede too far.

Periodontal ligaments

• The periodontal ligaments are connective tissues that connect the cementum to the jaw bone (alvelor bone) and cover the root. Its functions also include support for the tooth. Tension is put on the periodontal ligaments during chewing and biting, as the tooth can move slightly when eating.