When you look at your teeth, it may seem like they’re pretty simple – just some hard, white things for chewing food, right? Your dentist in Palm Beach Gardens says there’s much more to them and as you continue reading, he’ll explain the different parts of the tooth and what has happened when you’re in need of a root canal.
Exploring the Tooth!
We rely on our teeth for several reasons. They allow us to bite into and chew food, speak properly and provide support for the jawbone. For them to function properly, though, there are several parts at work.
The Hidden World of the Tooth Revealed
Here are the different parts of the tooth:
- Enamel – The part of your teeth that you can see is called the enamel, which is composed of the highest concentration of minerals in the body. Also, the hardest substance in the human structure, the primary mineral that forms the enamel is called hydroxyapatite. It allows your teeth to endure the barrage of food particles and digestive acids that are part of your normal daily life.
- Dentin – While the enamel has no nerves, the dentin does and thus, can be considered as the first live layer of tooth material. It forms a barrier of protection between your enamel and the precious inner tooth area.
- Cementum – Beneath the gumline lies the part of the tooth called the cementum. Just as its name suggests, it holds your tooth in place by forming a bond with the bone mass that lies under your gums.
- Inner Tooth – If we were to identify a prized part of the tooth, it would be the inner area. It houses the majority of the tooth’s nerves and root canals and is responsible for transporting blood and nutrients. If decay reaches this part of your tooth, it can result in serious health problems and pain.
When your tooth is severely decayed, dentist use a procedure called a root canal to restore it.
What is a Root Canal?
The root canal is used when decay has reached the inner tooth area. It involves your dentist making an incision in your tooth, removing the infected tissue, packing and sealing it. The tooth will no longer have any nerves, but it will still be functional.
When the procedure is done, your dentist will take bite impressions and measurements that will be sent to a trusted lab, where your custom crown (the part of the tooth the shows above the gumline) will be fabricated. After it’s created, you’ll return to be fitted and will then have a fully restored tooth.
Your teeth are valuable assets to your overall health. To have yours restored and to learn more about how to protect them, feel free to reach out to your dentist to schedule an appointment today!
About the Author
Dr. Nirav Patel combines his background in biology with his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine to provide well-rounded care to his patients. To further his knowledge, he also participates in continuing education courses throughout the year. Dr. Patel practices at Smile Solutions and can be reached for more information through his website.