You smile is important, which is why you should take care of your teeth. To understand how to protect them, you first need to know the components forming them.
Human beings develop two sets of teeth in their life. Both sets of teeth are formed in utero. Most human children are born with no visible teeth. During early childhood, the teeth will push through the gums. This first set of teeth consists of twenty teeth that are divided into four quadrants. In adolescence, they will lose this original set of teeth. A new set of teeth will become visible in its place. This set contains thirty-two teeth. The visible part of the tooth is called the crown. The shape of the crown varies depending on the particular function of the tooth. Teeth are made up of several substances that work together to ensure that the tooth can stay healthy and strong.
The center of the tooth is the pulp. It is where all the nerves and blood vessels exist. The pulp is where the tooth sends signals to the brain. It is also where the tooth gets nourished. Toothaches generally occur when the tooth has become decayed enough to reach the pulp. The rest of the tooth structure works to protect the pulp. Enamel, dentin and cementum make up the remainder of the tooth.
Enamel is made of up of primarily minerals. It makes up the part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth. Enamel is not always naturally white. It can vary from light yellow to gray. The appearance of enamel also depends on the substances below it. The amount of enamel changes depending on the section of the tooth. It is the hardest substance in the body. The enamel exists to protect the tooth from being worn down by chewing.
Below the enamel is the dentin. It contains organic and inorganic substances as well as water. It is a yellow color. It contains fewer minerals than enamel and is more porous. This causes it to be less brittle and softer than enamel. Unfortunately, this means that it can decay much quicker than enamel and care needs to be given to prevent cavities. Its main function is to add another layer of protection to the tooth.
Cementum covers the root of the tooth. It contains a larger amount of water, which makes cementum softer than enamel and dentin. It is also a yellowish color. The periodontal ligaments attach to the cementum, which gives the tooth increased stability. The ligaments and cementum work together to connect the tooth to the jaw.
Thomas Ajava is with DentistStop.com - your source for
dental health information.
