Tooth anatomy is very unique. We have several different types of teeth, and each type performs a different job. We use our teeth to bite and chew food, and so they are the first step in the digestion of food.  Teeth also help us say certain sounds.

Tooth Anatomy Glossary

Bicuspids (also called Premolars) are the teeth located between the Cuspids and the Molars..  Bicuspids have two points at the top.

Cementum is a layer of tough, yellowish, bone-like tissue that covers the root of a tooth.  It helps hold the tooth in the socket.

Crown is the visible part of the tooth.

Cuspids (also called Canines) are the long, sharp, single point teeth. They hold and tear up food.

Dentin is the hard but porous tissue located under both the enamel and cementum of the tooth.  Dentin is harder than bone.

Enamel is the tough, shiny, white outer surface of the tooth.

Incisors are the front teeth. They have a narrow edge.  Incisors are used to cut food.

Molars are the wide, flat teeth that grind and mash up food.

Pulp is the soft center of the tooth.  The pulp contains blood vessels and nerves.  It nourishes the Dentin.

Root is the anchor of a tooth that extends into the jawbone.  Each tooth has one to four roots.

Fun Facts About Teeth

• The tongue pushes the food to the teeth and saliva wets the food and helps digestion.

• Humans have two sets of teeth.

• The baby teeth are called primary teeth or deciduous teeth.  Children have 20 primary teeth.  The primary teeth are replaced with secondary, or permanent teeth.  They are replaced by the permanent teeth from about age 6 to around age 13.

• Adults have 32 permanent teeth.

Contact Austin-Central Dental for a dental examination today!