The Anatomy Of The Tooth

Author: Dr. Rima Solanki, DMD

During your dental appointment, you may hear your dentist talking about different layers of teeth and how each part of the tooth shows up on your radiograph. Teeth have three layers. The outer layer of the tooth is called the enamel and it is the hardest and densest material in the human body. It is primarily made of calcium phosphate minerals. The middle layer of the tooth is called dentin. It is less dense and contained fluid filled tubules. The pulp (often referred as nerve) is the most inner layer and contained blood and nerve vessels. When cavities are forming in the enamel, your dentist may recommend to “watch” them when excellent oral hygiene is present. As soon as cavities reach the dentin, your dentist will strongly recommend to treat them since cavities spread very rapidly in to pulp. When cavities reach to pulp, it is necessary to do root canal treatment to get the infection out. The diagram is included for reference. If you have questions regarding your teeth, be sure to talk to your dentist at your next scheduled visit!