Dental anatomy
Dental Anatomy
Dental anatomy is the field of anatomy that studies the structure and function of teeth. The pronunciation is /ˈdɛntəl əˈnætəmi/. The term originates from the Latin words dens (tooth) and anatomia (dissection).
Structure of Teeth
Teeth are composed of four different types of tissues: enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp. Each of these tissues has a specific function and structure.
- Enamel (/ɪˈnæməl/): The hardest and most highly mineralized substance in the human body. It covers the outer layer of each tooth and is the most visible part of the tooth. The enamel protects the tooth from wear and tear.
- Dentin (/ˈdɛntɪn/): A layer underlying the enamel. It is less hard than enamel but more hard than bone. Dentin is responsible for the majority of a tooth's length and has tubules that transmit stimuli to the nerve of the tooth.
- Cementum (/sɪˈmɛntəm/): A specialized calcified substance that covers the root of a tooth. It helps in attaching the teeth to the jaw.
- Pulp (/pʌlp/): The innermost part of a tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels. The pulp provides nutrition to the tooth and responds to external stimuli such as temperature changes.
Types of Teeth
Humans have four different types of teeth, each with a specific function:
- Incisors (/ɪnˈsaɪzərz/): The front teeth present in the mouth. They are primarily used for biting and cutting food.
- Canines (/ˈkeɪnaɪnz/): Also known as cuspids, these teeth are used for tearing and ripping food.
- Premolars (/priːˈmoʊlərz/): These teeth, also known as bicuspids, are used for crushing and grinding food.
- Molars (/ˈmoʊlərz/): The largest teeth in the mouth. They are used for grinding and chewing food.
Related Terms
- Periodontium (/ˌpɛrioʊˈdɒnʃiəm/): The specialized tissues that surround and support the teeth.
- Gingiva (/dʒɪnˈdʒaɪvə/): Also known as gums, they provide a seal around the teeth.
- Alveolar process (/ælˈviːələr ˈproʊsɛs/): The part of the jawbone that contains the tooth sockets.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dental anatomy
- Wikipedia's article - Dental anatomy
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