1. TEETH: THE BEGINNING OF DIGESTION

2. NOTES – TEETH: THE BEGINNING OF DIGESTION
Parts of Teeth
Dentin
most of the tooth
matrix similar to bone except no living cells

3. Enamel
calcium phosphate
hardest substance produced by the body

4. Pulp Cavity
blood vessels & nerves – enter through root foramen (opening) at base of tooth

5. Other tooth parts/stuff
crown, neck, root, gum or GINGIVA

6. deciduous (baby) teeth – 20 by age 2

7. Adult teeth - 32
note locations of incisors, canines, premolars, molars

8. Problems with Teeth
Plaque
bacteria sticking to surface of teeth – produces sticky matrix that traps food particles
this protects bacteria from saliva

9. Cavities
acid from bacteria erode the structure of the tooth
can be prevented by brushing and FLOSSING

10. bacteria infect pulp – destroy pulp cavity and nerve
Root Canal
pulp must be removed and packed with solid materials