A Quick Guide
to...
Teeth can be broadly divided into the part visible above
the gum, the ‘crown’, and the ‘root’ which is buried in
bone, under the gum. The bone holds the tooth in place.
The outer layer of the crown is composed of Enamel. This
whitish translucent layer is the hardest substance in the
body. It is thickest on the biting surface of the tooth,
thinnest at the sides, especially near the gum edge.
Supporting the enamel, and also composing the root of the
tooth is Dentine. This yellowish porous material is softer
than enamel, and is perforated by many microscopic
channels. Within some of these are nerve fibres, which are
thought to give dentine a certain amount of sensitivity,
allowing us to detect problems such as decay.
Within the centre of each tooth, enclosed by dentine, is
contained a collection of nerves and blood vessels,
collectively known as the pulp. The pulp connects to the
main nerves and blood vessels of the jaws through the tip
of each root.
Common problems that we encounter with teeth are:
- Bad breath
- Plaque, tartar
and stain
• Periodontal disease
• Erosion, abrasion and gum recession
• Decay (caries)
• Abscess or infection
• Trauma
• Misalignment
• Poor appearance