cross section of a molar [2]

Teeth are formed of two main parts: the crown (the visible protruding part) and one or several roots (the part inserted into the maxilla).

enamel

Highly mineralized tissue covering and protecting the dentin of the crown; it is the hardest tissue in the organism.

crown

Part of the tooth covered with enamel and protruding outside the gum.

neck

Narrow part of the tooth surrounded by the gum separating the crown from the root.

cementum

Hard mineralized tissue comparable to bone covering and protecting the dentin of the root.

root

Part of the tooth covered with cementum, and implanted into the dental alveolus of the maxilla; certain teeth, such as the molars, have several roots.

alveolar bone

Section of the maxilla bone surrounding the dental alveola; its presence depends on the presence of teeth: it forms and disappears when they do.

plexus of nerves

Grouping of blood vessels and nerves that enters the pulp through the apical foramen to nourish the tooth.

apex

Terminal part of the dental root whose opening (apical foramen) allows blood vessels and nerves to pass through.

maxillary bone

Jawbone into which the teeth are inserted.

gum

Thick section of the mucous membrane of the mouth that is rich in blood vessels and nerves; it covers the edge of the dental alveolus and adheres to the neck.

pulp chamber

Central chamber of the crown enclosing the dental pulp and extending through the root canal.

root canal

Extension of the pulp chamber containing the dental pulp and opening at the apex of the root.

dental alveolus

Bony maxillary cavity in which the root of the tooth is implanted.

apical foramen

Narrow orifice located at the terminal part of the apex allowing blood vessels and nerves to pass into the tooth.

periodontal ligament

Fibrous connective tissue joining the cementum to the bone, thus fixing the tooth into its alveolus.

pulp

Soft conjunctive tissue that is rich in blood vessels and nerves; the pulp gives the tooth its sensitivity and plays an essential nutritional role.

dentin

Hard mineralized tissue forming the teeth; it surrounds the dental pulp and is protected by the enamel and cementum.