ANATOMY OF TEETH

I- Introduction

The teeth, or dentes are accessory digestive organs located in sockets of the alveolar
processes of the mandible and maxillae.

II- Content

The alveolar processes are covered by the gingivae or gums, which extend slightly into each
socket. The sockets are lined by the periodontal ligament or periodontal membrane, which consists
of dense fibrous connective tissue that anchors the teeth to the socket walls and acts as a shock
absorber during chewing.

(3) Major External Regions

 Crown – visible portion above the level of the gums
 Neck – constricted junction of the crown and root near the gum line
 Root – portion embedded in the socket; can be one to three
 Forms the majority of the tooth, consists of a calcified connective tissue, gives
DENTIN the tooth its shape and rigidity, harder than bone because of its higher content of
hydroxyapatite (70% versus 55% of dry weight).
The hardest substance in the body and covers the dentin of the crown, consists
ENAMEL primarily of calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate, protects tooth from the
wear and tear of chewing and also against acids that can easily dissolve dentin.
Another bone-like substance that covers the dentin of the root, attaches the root
CEMENTUM
to the periodontal ligament.
The enlarged part of the space enclosed by the dentin, lies within the crown and
PULP CAVITY is filled with pulp, a connective tissue containing blood vessels, nerves, and
lymphatic vessels.
ROOT CANAL Narrow extensions of the pulp cavity, run through the root of the tooth.
The opening at the base of root canal, through which blood vessels, lymphatic
APICAL FORAMEN vessels, and nerves enter a tooth. The blood vessels bring nourishment, the
lymphatic vessels offer protection, and the nerves provide sensation.

(2) Dentitions
 DECIDUOUS – primary teeth, milk teeth & baby teeth
 PERMANENT – replaces deciduous teeth, consists of 32 teeth
 INCISOR CANINE PREMOLAR MOLAR

CUSPS - 1 2 4

U- 3
ROOTS 1 1 1
L-2

Fx Cut Tear & Shred Crushing and Grinding

III- References
Snell, R. (2012). Clinical Anatomy by Regions (9th ed.). Two Commerce Square, 2001
Market Street, Philadelphia.