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Teeth play a very important role in your body, but are often overlooked. We often take our teeth for granted, until something goes wrong. Your teeth allow you to chew foods, speak clearly and smile. But in order to function properly, it's important that teeth are taken care of through daily brushing, flossing, a well-balanced diet and regular visits to the dentist. Many people are not aware of a tooth's intricate structure or the different types and their roles. The better you understand your teeth, the more knowledgeable you will be of their important function and your responsibility to practice good daily oral hygiene. So brush up on your dental health knowledge, and you will take the first step toward giving your teeth the attention they deserve. A Tooth's Structure Teeth are made up of two basic parts: the crown and the root. The crown is the part you see when you smile, and the root is the part beneath the gum line that attaches the tooth to the bone. Three important layers make up the tooth. * Enamel-The hardest material in the human body, the enamel is the durable, white outside covering of the tooth.
* Dentin- The bulk of the tooth, the dentin is the yellowish bone-like material that is covered by the enamel and that protects the nerves and blood vessels.
* Pulp-The center of the tooth that contains blood vessels and nerves, which deliver nutrients to the tooth. Type of Teeth & Their Functions There are five types of permanent teeth in the mouth, each different looking and designed to provide a different function. * Incisors
These are the eight teeth in the front and center of your mouth. These teeth are used for biting food.
* Canines
These are the four (two on top and two on bottom) sharp, pointy teeth adjacent to your incisors. They help tear and rip food.
* Premolars
Also called bicuspid teeth, the four premolars are next to the canine teeth on each side of the mouth. These teeth are bigger and stronger than canines and incisors, helping you chew and grind food.
* Molars
These are your strongest teeth (four on top and four on bottom), working closely with your tongue to mash your food so that it's ready to be swallowed.
* Third molars
Commonly known as wisdom teeth, these are the last teeth to develop and, and some people never develop third molars at all. For those who do, these molars may cause crowding and other dental issues and need to be extracted. In summary, teeth are important. Each tooth is designed differently to help you chew and speak normally. They also are the first things people notice when you flash a smile. With proper oral hygiene, you can ensure your teeth are functioning and looking great for a lifetime.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Azle general dentists at Todays Dental, Drs. Frank and Jodie Rubal. Todays Dental is a private practice office with a husband and wife team, making for a unique dental practice. Practicing dental health care in Azle since 1996, Todays Dental, Azle cosmetic dentist, offers family and cosmetic dentistry including crowns and dentures.
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