The human teeth primary function is to break down food in preparation for swallowing and eventual digestion. The human teeth are of four types:
. Incisors
. Canines
. Molars
. Premolars
Every type of teeth performs different functions. The main duty of the incisors is to cut food. Canines tear the food while the molars and the premolars crush the food. The roots of the teeth are embedded in the upper jaw and the lower jaw and are covered by the gums. The teeth are made up of layers of tissues that have varying density and hardness:
Crown
Crown is the uppermost part of the tooth and it is the only part that is visible. The shape of a crown greatly determines a tooth’s function. For example, the teeth that are situated at the front are chisel-shaped and sharp for cutting while the flat surface of molars makes them suitable for grinding food.
Enamel
Enamel is the outer part of the teeth, and it is made up of calcium phosphate. The calcium phosphate is a rock hard mineral that makes the outermost part of the teeth very strong. If not taken care of, the enamel can be easily damaged through decay.
Dentin
Dentin is the layer of the teeth that comes just below the enamel. When decay of a tooth has progressed through the enamel, it attacks the dentin. The dentin is made up of living cells that secrete the enamel. Dentin is softer by nature when compared to enamel; therefore, it is capable of decaying more rapidly if not immediately treated. The main function of the dentin is to act as a protective layer and support the crown. Dentin is secreted by cells known as odontoblasts that are found in the dental pulp.
Pulp
The pulp is the soft tissue that is found in the center of the teeth. It’s in the center of the teeth where the nerve tissues and blood vessels are located. When the tooth decay has reached the pulp, a person usually feels a lot of pain.
Root
Root is the part of a tooth that is embedded into a bone. The root holds the tooth in place and it is about two-thirds of the tooth.
Gum line
Gum line is found where the tooth and the gums meet. The gum line needs to be brushed and flossed regularly to avoid build-up of plaque and tartar. The buildup of these materials leads to gum disease and gingivitis.
Proper oral care is paramount for healthy teeth. Practicing these dental habits will ensure that you have excellent dental health:
. Taking care of the toothbrush
The toothbrush should be rinsed well after use and placed in an upright position for it to dry. According to the American Dental Association, a toothbrush should be replaced after using it for three months.
. Tongue brushing
Brushing your tongue will assist in fighting bacteria in the mouth.
. Visit a dentist
Visiting your dentist on a regular basis for checkups is vital in keeping the teeth healthy.
. Fluoride therapy
Fluoride therapy is recommended to protect the teeth against dental caries. The fluoride that is made available to the teeth through fluoride therapy makes the enamel resistant to demineralization hence more resistant to decay.
References
1. http://www.uky.edu/~brmacp/oralhist/module4/lecture/oh4lect.htm
2. https://www.britannica.com/science/tooth-anatomy
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