Structure of a Human Tooth

Front

What is enamel?

Back

The hard, calcified outer covering of a tooth used to break down food, primarily consisting of hydroxyapatite.

Front

What is dentin?

Back

A softer, more vulnerable material that serves as a last line of defense for the tooth pulp if enamel is broken or dissolved.

Front

What is cementum?

Back

A bone-like tissue that includes hydroxyapatite and connective proteins, attaching the tooth to the periodontal ligaments.

Front

What is the pulp of a tooth?

Back

The part of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves, keeping the tooth healthy and alerting to injuries and infections.

Front

What are the major regions of a tooth according to dentists?

Back

The root, the neck, and the crown.

Front

What is the root of a tooth?

Back

Consists of dentin and pulp, covered by cementum, anchoring the tooth to the jaw and vulnerable to injury and infection.

Front

What is the neck of a tooth?

Back

The place where the cementum of the root meets the enamel of the tooth’s crown.

Front

What is the crown of a tooth?

Back

Consists of a thick enamel surface used to cut and grind food, with a thick layer of dentin under the enamel.