Parts of a tooth

The human tooth has two primary components : the crown and root. The crown is the portion of the tooth that projects above the gums while the root is that portion that anchors the tooth to the bone.

The teeth are composed of 4 tissues. The enamel covers the crown of the teeth and is the hardest known substance in the human body. This extreme hardness is necessary to survive the powerful forces exerted on the tooth surface during chewing.

Inner to the enamel is the dentin forming the bulk of the tooth. Cementum covers the root portion of the tooth and gives attachment to certain fibers called periodontal ligament that help the tooth attach to the jaws.

The pulp is the innermost part of the tooth containing the nerves, blood vessels and other cells. The pulp is the vital area of the tooth. Gums are soft tissues that cover the tooth like a collar.