Teeth are complex structures composed of four main tissues:
The Four Tissues of Teeth
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Enamel: This is the hardest substance in the human body. It's the outer layer of the crown (the visible part of the tooth) and is primarily made of hydroxyapatite, a mineral providing strength and protection. [Source: myballwindentist.com, news.wisc.edu] Enamel is about 95% inorganic material. [Source: news.wisc.edu]
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Dentin: Found beneath the enamel, dentin forms the bulk of the tooth. It's a hard tissue but softer than enamel, providing support and structure. [Source: myballwindentist.com, georgetownelitedental.com, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, haslamfamilydental.com, news-medical.net]
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Cementum: This hard tissue covers the root of the tooth (the part embedded in the gum). It helps anchor the tooth to the jawbone. [Source: georgetownelitedental.com, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, news-medical.net]
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Pulp: Located in the tooth's center, the pulp is soft tissue containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It provides nourishment and sensation to the tooth. [Source: georgetownelitedental.com, riverstonedentalcare.com, mouthhealthy.org, news-medical.net]
Key Differences from Bones
While teeth and bones both contain calcium, they are distinct. Teeth are not living tissues in the same way bones are; they don't have the same capacity for self-repair. [Source: georgetownelitedental.com, healthline.com]
In Summary
Human teeth are made up of a combination of hard and soft tissues, each playing a vital role in the tooth's structure and function. The hard tissues – enamel, dentin, and cementum – provide strength and protection, while the soft pulp tissue keeps the tooth alive and sensitive.
