Read On To Become An “Tooth Expert”

StarWhite Dental cares about your teeth. They are strong, resilient, and designed to last a lifetime. But your general health, tooth decay, poor dental habits, and the passage of time can play havoc with your teeth. Let’s get to the basics…and learn what kind of teeth you have and what makes them so strong and amazing:

Each of your teeth comprises two parts: The visible crown and the root, which is not visible.

You have four kinds of teeth:

1. Incisors are the teeth in the front of your mouth. There are eight, and all have the same function – they are for biting into food. Incisors are usually the first teeth to erupt at around six months.
2. Canines are the pointed, sharp teeth next to your incisors. There are two on the top row and two on the bottom. They are used to tear pieces of food.
3. Premolars (bicuspids) are the large, flat teeth behind your canine teeth that tear, crush, and mash your food. As an adult, you have eight premolars.
4. Molars are the largest teeth found at the very back of your mouth. Including the wisdom teeth, most adults have 12 molars. They are also used for chewing and grinding your food.

Each tooth is made of four types of tissue:

1. Enamel is the visible substance that covers the crown. Harder than bone, the enamel comprises phosphorous and calcium, protecting the tooth from decay.
2. Dentin lies underneath the enamel. It looks similar to bone but is not as hard as enamel.
3. Cementum is the tissue covering the tooth root, helping anchor it to the bone. It is softer than enamel and dentin.
4. Pulp is found at the center of your tooth and contains the blood vessels, nerves, and other soft tissues that deliver signals and nutrients to your teeth.

Let StarWhite Dental help you maintain a healthy smile for life.

Call for a dental check-up today at (951) 698-4426.