We all have teeth, but not many of us know about the different parts of a tooth and their intricacies. Human teeth are remarkable, and serve so many purposes. Now, dentist Dr. Samer Zaky has come forward to explain the different parts of teeth, and provide some tips on how to look after them.
It is easy to forget just how amazing our teeth are. They make our smile look nice, they are used to chew food, bite things, and we use them to speak.
However, while they are very important, some people neglect them. We only get one set of teeth in adulthood – so it is crucial for us to look after them.
Now, dentist Dr. Samer Zaky has come forward to explain the different parts of teeth, and provide tips on how to look after and protect our teeth [1]. These tips are relevant to us all.
Background
Dr. Zaky has spoken of his admiration for teeth, calling them a “biological marvel” [1]! He has been discussing the various areas of the tooth and gums – namely the enamel, dentin and pulp [1].
The typical adult has 32 teeth. These include 12 molars, 8 premolars, 4 canines, and 8 incisors. Each tooth has its own function, but all play a crucial role in our oral health.
Every tooth is vulnerable to tooth decay, which makes it important for us to look after our teeth. But teeth aren’t always looked after. In fact, 1 in 5 Americans aged 75 and over live without teeth [2].
The enamel
The enamel is considered to be the “protective shell” of the tooth, and covers the visible part of the tooth above the gum. Incredibly, enamel is the hardest tissue in the human body [1].
Enamel does not regenerate unfortunately. Researchers have the ultimate aim in the future of being capable of providing on-demand regrown teeth [1].
Due to teeth not regenerating automatically, once a tooth has become decayed, enamel cannot be repaired. Decaying enamel happens due to acid-generating bacteria accumulating on unbrushed or inadequately brushed teeth [1].
Moreover, this results in the minerals in the enamel being dissolved. Therefore, it gets to the point where a tooth becomes extensively decayed, which results in a cavity forming. This is when a filling is required.
Despite it being so strong, enamel needs some support, which is provided by something more resilient – called dentin.
Dentin and the pulp
Dentin has less mineral content than enamel. It is a living tissue which is formed of tiny tubes that house fluid and cellular extensions. These originate from the pulp [1].
The pulp is the tooth’s soft tissue core. It has plenty of blood vessels, nerves and cells. Zaky says he considers it to be the “heart” of the tooth, and the key to its longevity [1].
The cells of dentin are very clever. Once decay is detected from the enamel, the cells of dentin signal to the pulp that something isn’t right – which results in tooth sensitivity [1]. This explains why we get tooth sensitivity.
Eventually, toothache happens. This is when it is definitely time to seek help from a dentist, if you haven’t done so already. The earlier you visit, the more of the tooth’s natural tissues will be preserved. Moreover, this increases the chance of the pulp regaining its healthy state.
When the tooth’s heart – the pulp – isn’t working, the tooth becomes more vulnerable. Dentin will eventually break, resulting in the pulp becoming infected. Root canal treatment is normally then needed, which is a more invasive procedure.
Protection
The most important thing you can do to protect your teeth is toothbrushing. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2-3 minutes.
You should compliment your toothbrushing by flossing. This helps to remove any debris that toothbrushing missed. Flossing forms a key part of any oral hygiene routine.
Tongue scraping can help to remove the buildup of bacteria on the tongue. This activity can aid our overall oral health and improve your breath.
Eating healthily and trying to avoid sugary or acidic drinks can also help. Using mouthwash after eating meals is also a good way of helping your teeth.
Then, as will be discussed later, attending dental appointments is crucial. This will ensure a dentist will be able to take a look at your teeth and make sure there aren’t any issues.
Finally, if you ever think about how valuable your teeth are, just remember that one of John Lennon’s teeth sold for just over $31,000 in 2011 [3]! Therefore, as adults typically have 32 teeth, what is in your mouth is highly valuable!
Thinking points…
1) As discussed above, it is crucial for you to attend regular dental appointments. Dental check-ups allow a dentist to take an in-depth look at your teeth, and check for any issues. If issues are noticed, a dentist will be able to provide advice and recommend treatment. We recommend attending a dental appointment soon!
2) If you have any children, you could share this article with them. Articles like this are very educational and can help to remind children of the importance of looking after their teeth. It could definitely positively impact their oral health. Why not share this article now?
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a dental clinic based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We provide our patients with a range of treatment options and advice, with the aim of improving oral health and boosting overall wellbeing!
We advise our patients to attend our Calgary-based dental clinic twice a year for a dental check-up. If any problems are detected, we have many treatments available. For instance, these include cavity fillings and root canals. To try and prevent problems, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly.
Here at Savanna Dental, we also have some cosmetic treatments available! These include dental implants, tooth whitening and Invisalign™! Our patients find that these treatments have a positive impact on their appearance, confidence and self-esteem.
In addition, the fees of our services at our Calgary dental clinic Savanna Dental are set in line with the Alberta Dental Fee Guide.
We would love you to visit our Savanna Dental clinic in Calgary! You can find out more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca/!
References
[1] Zaky, S. (2024). Healthy teeth are wondrous and priceless – a dentist explains why and how best to protect them. Available: https://theconversation.com/healthy-teeth-are-wondrous-and-priceless-a-dentist-explains-why-and-how-best-to-protect-them-224207. Last accessed: 10th May 2024.
[2] National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research. (2022). Tooth Loss in Seniors. Available: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/research/data-statistics/tooth-loss/seniors. Last accessed: 10th May 2024.
[3] BBC News. (2011). John Lennon’s tooth bought by Canadian dentist. Available: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-15606017. Last accessed: 10th May 2024.
