Tooth

Tooth

A tooth (plural teeth) is a hard, calcified structure found in the jaws (or mouths) of many vertebrates and used to break down food. Some animals, particularly carnivores, also use teeth for hunting or for defensive purposes. The roots of teeth are covered by gums. Teeth are not made of bone, but rather of multiple tissues of varying density and hardness.

Structure

Teeth are composed of multiple tissues of varying density and hardness. The cellular tissues that ultimately become teeth originate from the embryonic germ layer, the ectoderm.

Crown

The crown of a tooth is the part of the tooth that is visible in the mouth. The crown is covered in enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body.

Root

The root of a tooth is the part of the tooth that is embedded in the jaw bone. The root makes up about two-thirds of the tooth and holds the tooth in place.

Function

Teeth have various functions, including aiding in chewing food, speech and pronunciation, and supporting facial muscles.

Development

Tooth development is the complex process by which teeth form from embryonic cells, grow, and erupt into the mouth.

Diseases

Tooth diseases are extremely common, and can lead to pain and discomfort if not treated properly. Some common tooth diseases include tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.

Treatment

Treatment for tooth diseases varies depending on the specific disease. Some treatments include fillings, root canals, and tooth extraction.

See also

• Dentistry
• Oral hygiene
• Tooth brushing
• Tooth enamel
• Tooth extraction

References

Tooth Resources
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