Inside Your Smile: The 4 Hidden Layers of a Tooth

Your teeth may look pearly white on the outside, but there is a lot more going on underneath than you may initially realize. After all, you need your teeth to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. You know about your enamel on the outside and all of the steps you need to take to protect it, but you may not know about the other three layers of the tooth. Continue reading to learn more about each one.

The Enamel

Enamel is the hard, outermost layer of the tooth that you can see when you or someone else smiles. This is a protective layer, and it is the strongest substance in the human body. It is even stronger than bone tissue. The primary purpose of tooth enamel is to protect the more vulnerable inner layers of the tooth from damage caused by chewing, temperature changes, and acids. While enamel is very durable, it does not grow back after it has been damaged or worn away. Acidic foods, sugary drinks, and poor oral hygiene can all cause enamel to erode over time, exposing the more sensitive inner layers of the teeth.

The Dentin

Underneath the enamel is a layer called the “dentin.” This is a yellow color and makes up most of the tooth’s structure. Dentin isn’t as hard as enamel, but it helps to absorb the forces of biting and chewing. It also contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerve of the tooth. When the enamel becomes damaged or the gums recede too low, the dentin layer is exposed, causing sensitivity and discomfort. By protecting the enamel and gums, you can keep the dentin protected.

The Pulp

The pulp is the innermost layer of the tooth and contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. This is the layer that is responsible for nutrients and sensation. When you have a toothache, it is usually due to the pulp becoming aggravated or infected due to deep decay, cracks, or trauma. When this layer is affected, root canal treatment is often necessary to restore the health of the tooth.

The Cementum

This is the thin layer that covers the tooth’s root and helps it stay firmly in place in the jawbone. It works side by side with the periodontal ligament to remain anchored yet have enough give for chewing. This layer is softer than both the enamel and dentin and relies on excellent oral hygiene to stay healthy.

Your teeth are much more intricate than you may have thought. All of these layers work together to keep your smile healthy and happy!

About the Practice

At A New Smile, we have a team of skilled dentists, including a general dentist, periodontist, and oral surgeon, serving patients in the Pacoima community. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (818) 897-5771.