Exploring the Enigma: Revealing the Fascinating Structure and Functions of Your Teeth
Your teeth play vital roles in your life. They help you to eat and speak, make your smile attractive and maintain your facial structure. However, damaged or missing teeth cause several challenges. Fortunately, the dental professionals at a dental clinic near you can help keep your teeth in excellent health and condition. Read on for more.
The Tooth Structure
Teeth consist of two main structures, the crown and roots. The crown is the visible part above your gums, while the roots are the parts below the gums. Your teeth have four layers, including the enamel, dentin, cementum, and tooth pulp.
The enamel is a hard protective layer that covers the crown. Below the enamel lies the dentin. It is followed by the cementum, which covers the tooth roots and helps anchor the tooth in the jaw. The pulp is the innermost layer containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.
Although teeth resemble bones in appearance, they are not. Instead, they are ectodermal organs like the skin and hair. Teeth cannot self-repair when damaged since they do not contain the marrow found in bones.
Types of Teeth and Their Functions
Children have 20 primary teeth that fall out and are replaced by 32 permanent teeth. However, some adults are born with missing teeth, while others have extra teeth. The 32 permanent teeth are categorized into incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
Incisors are your front teeth, and they cut into food when biting. Canines are pointy teeth that enable you to tear foods. Premolars are between the canines and molars. They enable you to tear, crush and grind food into smaller pieces. Molars are positioned at the back of the mouth and are designed to do the most chewing.
Common Dental Problems and Their Impact on Teeth Anatomy
Teeth are susceptible to various conditions because they perform several functions every day. Below are some common dental problems that affect adults and kids.
- Cavities
They are small holes that form on the tooth surface due to the accumulation of bacteria and plaque. Cavities affect the teeth anatomy by forming holes. When left untreated, they become more extensive and reach the pulp. This results in tooth infections and tooth loss.
- Gum disease
This infection is caused by poor oral hygiene, some medications, or smoking. The condition impacts teeth anatomy by damaging the tissues anchoring the tooth to the gums. As a result, the tooth will loosen and may even fall out. Gum disease also exposes the tooth roots increasing the risk of decay and infections.
- Bruxism
This condition causes a person to grind or clench their teeth. It usually happens subconsciously, particularly when you are stressed. Bruxism damages the tooth enamel causing it to thin or break. As a result, you risk tooth decay, infections, and tooth loss increase.
- Pulpitis
It is inflammation of the pulp that occurs when a deep cavity is untreated or after dental trauma. Pulpitis impacts the teeth’s anatomy significantly since, when left untreated, the tooth weakens. As a result, it becomes susceptible to breaking, chipping, or cracking.
- Malocclusion
It is the misalignment of teeth that results in crowding, underbites, or overbites. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean and cause chewing difficulties. Consequently, they increase the risk of problems like cracking, chipping, breaking, and decay.
The Connection Between Teeth and Overall Health
The dentist in Tracy, CA, emphasizes great oral habits because oral health is connected to whole-body health. Therefore, issues with your teeth and gums can affect your overall health. For example, untreated gum disease and decay can lead to cardiovascular disease and pneumonia. It also contributes to pregnancy and birth complications and endocarditis.
Tips for Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene and Healthy Teeth
Taking proper care of your mouth helps you avoid many tooth conditions and keeps your teeth healthy. Below are tips from dental professionals at Valley View Dental-Tracy to help you care for your teeth.
- Brush at least twice each day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss between your teeth once daily
- Get treatment for gum disease at periodontics in Tracy, CA
- Limit your sugary and acidic foods and drinks
- Use a mouthguard during contact sports
- Wear a nightguard if you have bruxism
- Quit smoking
- Attend dental exams and cleanings regularly.