Understanding Your Teeth: Insights from Excel Dental Studio of Merrillville
Have you ever wondered about the formation of your teeth? The more information patients have about their teeth, the better they can care for them and understand their importance. At Excel Dental Studio of Merrillville, we’re here to provide you with that knowledge.
The Anatomy of a Tooth
Teeth are among the most complex structures in the body. They are made up of unique tissues found only in the mouth, designed specifically for their various functions.
Primary and Permanent Teeth
Primary teeth, also known as baby teeth, are the first set of teeth to develop. By age three, most children have all 20 primary teeth. These baby teeth have shorter, thinner roots and thinner enamel, giving them a much whiter appearance compared to permanent teeth.
Primary teeth are only the first draft. Between the ages of 6 and 12, these teeth fall out and are replaced by adult teeth. By age 14, all baby teeth are typically replaced by 28 permanent teeth. A complete set of permanent teeth includes 32 teeth, with wisdom teeth potentially appearing in a person’s twenties.
Types of Teeth
Not all teeth are created equal.
Each type serves a different purpose and has a distinct shape:
- Incisors: These are the four front teeth in the upper and lower jaws. They are used for cutting and holding food. The biting edge is wide and thin, resembling tiny chisels.
- Canines: These pointed teeth, also known as cuspids, are located next to the incisors. They are used to hold and tear food and are often mistaken for fangs.
- Premolars: Also known as bicuspids, these four teeth next to the canines are larger and more powerful. They have ridges to crush and grind food.
- Molars: The 12 molars are flat teeth at the back of the mouth, with several ridges to grind food. Properly chewing with molars helps prevent digestive issues and choking.
Parts of a Tooth
Your teeth are composed of different layers and parts that connect to your jaw, designed to be durable and aid in chewing:
- Crown: The visible part of the tooth above the gums, consisting of three layers. The enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, protects the tooth’s interior. Beneath the enamel is the dentin, a bone-like substance that separates the enamel from the pulp cavity. The pulp cavity contains blood vessels and nerves, giving the tooth life and sensitivity.
- Neck: The middle region of the tooth, where the crown meets the root at the gum line.
- Root: Located beneath the gum line, the root contains more pulp, including nerve endings and blood vessels. The number of roots varies by tooth type, with molars having two or three roots and incisors, canines, and premolars having one. The periodontal membrane cushions and holds the roots in place.
Taking Care of Your Teeth
Understanding the structure of your teeth helps you detect problems more quickly. However, our dental office is always here to assist you. How much do you know about the construction of your teeth? At Excel Dental Studio of Merrillville, we believe that the more our patients understand about their teeth, the better they will be able to care for them.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. As your trusted Merrillville dentist, we are dedicated to helping you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.