Anatomy of a Tooth

Bone Structure

The Jawbone and Alveolar Bone: Teeth are anchored in the jawbone, with the lower bone called the mandibular and the upper bone referred to as the maxillary.

Root Attachment: Each tooth's root firmly attaches to these bones, ensuring stability.

Tooth Parts

The Crown: The visible part of the tooth within the mouth.

The Root: Hidden in the gum, connecting the crown to the bone.

The Neck: The junction where the crown and root meet.

Layers of a Tooth

Tooth Composition: A tooth consists of several layers.

Enamel: The outermost layer, a hard and shiny substance, among the toughest known.

Dentine: Situated beneath the enamel, this softer bone-like layer encases the tooth's core.

Nerve Canal (Root Canal): At the tooth's centre, this canal houses nerves and blood vessels.

Causes of Dental Pain

Infection: Dental pain often results from infections affecting the tooth's root canal, leading to swelling.

Dental Abscess Formation

Apical Foramen: The very bottom of the root contains a small hole known as the apical foramen.

Abscess Development: Dental abscesses occur when the root canal becomes infected, causing pressure to release through the apical foramen.

Tooth Support

Shock Absorbers: Tiny fibres act as shock absorbers, holding the tooth in place and reducing jaw trauma during chewing.