Teeth Are Made Of A Hard Substance Called
Teeth are an important part of our body that helps us chew food and break it down into smaller pieces. They also play a crucial role in our speech and appearance. But have you ever wondered what teeth are made of? Well, teeth are made of a hard substance called enamel, which is one of the hardest substances in the human body.
Enamel
Enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth that covers the crown, which is the part of the tooth that is visible above the gum line. It is a hard, white, and translucent substance that protects the tooth from wear and tear, temperature changes, and acid attacks. Enamel is made up of 96% minerals, mainly hydroxyapatite, and 4% organic material and water. It is the hardest substance in the human body, even harder than bone.
Dentin
Dentin is the layer of the tooth that lies beneath the enamel and surrounds the pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Dentin is harder than bone but softer than enamel. It is made up of 70% minerals, mainly hydroxyapatite, 20% organic material, mainly collagen, and 10% water. Dentin is responsible for giving teeth their yellowish color.
Pulp
The pulp is the living part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. It is located in the center of the tooth and extends from the crown to the root. The pulp is responsible for nourishing and hydrating the tooth, as well as providing sensory functions. If the pulp becomes infected or inflamed, it can cause severe pain and require a root canal treatment.
Cementum
Cementum is the layer of the tooth that covers the root and helps anchor the tooth to the jawbone. It is a thin layer of mineralized connective tissue that is softer than enamel and dentin. Cementum is made up of 45% minerals, mainly hydroxyapatite, 33% organic material, mainly collagen, and 22% water. Cementum is also responsible for repairing and regenerating the tooth's attachment to the jawbone.
Conclusion
Teeth are made up of several layers, each with its unique composition and function. Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and protects the tooth from damage. Dentin is softer than enamel but harder than bone and gives teeth their color. The pulp is the living part of the tooth that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Cementum is the layer that covers the root and helps anchor the tooth to the jawbone. Taking good care of your teeth, such as brushing twice a day, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly, can help prevent dental problems and keep your teeth healthy and strong.
