Preventative Boise Dental Education: The Anatomy Of Teeth

The health of our teeth and gums are critical to the quality of our lives. But what happens if we don’t take care of them? At Summit Dental Group we believe that preventative care and Boise dental education are extremely important to optimal dental health. That’s why it’s essential to understand the anatomy of our teeth and gums. This way, our patients can see for themselves how every part of their smile is important to their overall health.

The Anatomy Teeth — What Makes Up Your Smile

The Crown

Teeth are made up of two major parts: the crown and the root. As the visual part of a tooth, the crown is what everyone sees when you smile. Resting above the gum line the crown only makes up a third of your actual tooth.

Tooth Roots

Embedded in the gums and jawbone, tooth roots lie beneath the crown. Roots are surrounded by nerve endings and work to stimulate blood flow and keep your jawbone strong.

Tooth Enamel

Tooth enamel is the outermost layer of your tooth. Typically, it’s white and shiny unless it becomes stained over time. When this happens the enamel can become dull and yellow. While it is one of the hardest substances our body produces, it can be worn down as we age due to everyday wear and tear.

The Dentin Layer

Naturally yellow, the dentin layer of a tooth is the bony material that supports the enamel and carries the nerve fibers of a tooth. People with sensitive teeth often feel discomfort because the dentin layer of their teeth are exposed to the substances they put in their mouth.

The Cementum Layer

As the surface layer to the roots, the cementum layer attaches to both your jawbone and gums. Dynamic to your periodontal health, this layer can become inflamed when gingivitis strikes.

The Dental Pulp

Tooth pulp is in the very center of a tooth and contains blood, nerves, and lymph vessels. Centralized the pulp works to circulate blood flow and keep a tooth alive.

Why It’s Important To Care For Your Smile

It’s now a well-accepted fact that there is a direct link between your Boise dental health and your overall health. In fact, most studies suggest that the bacteria and inflammation that causes gum disease also contributes to other major health issues like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.

Even worse, many dental issues like periodontal (gum) disease or tooth decay won’t cause any pain until they’re in an advanced stage which often requires a complex treatment plan. That’s why maintaining your oral health is an important step to protecting your overall health.

Summit Dental Group

As a practice, Summit Dental Group believes in providing excellent dental care because we want each and every one of our patients to be able to trust us to care for their teeth from root to crown. Our Boise dentists do this by practicing continuing education, disease prevention and restoring the natural beauty of your smile. Contact us at (208) 314-2275 for more information or to schedule an appointment today!