In the video above, Dr. Richard Kahan delves into the intricate structure of your teeth and the brilliance behind their design. The truth is, they are marvels of microengineering, designed not only for chewing but also to protect your jaw and muscles
If you don’t have time to watch the full video, here’s a quick summary:
The Three Layers of a Tooth
Your tooth consists of three layers: enamel, dentine, and pulp. While these names may be familiar, understanding their purpose is key. Together, they form a unique design that not only protects the tooth but also safeguards the jawbone and associated muscles.
If your tooth were a solid block like an implant, it would easily chip or break under the constant pressure of chewing. This could damage the jawbone and cause stress to the muscles around the jaw joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
The Protective Layers
- Enamel: The outermost layer, a hard crystalline shell, acts like a helmet for your tooth.
- Dentine: Beneath the enamel, dentine is slightly softer and more flexible, allowing the tooth to absorb forces and prevent fractures. Dentine contains millions of tiny channels filled with fluid that communicate with your brain to adjust the pressure applied during chewing.
The fluid in dentinal tubules serves multiple purposes, primarily protecting against bacteria with immune-reactive proteins. When the tooth flexes, the fluid’s movement triggers a pain response that signals the brain to reduce biting force, preventing damage. This micro-feedback loop operates subconsciously, protecting your tooth and jaw during every bite.
The Role of the Pulp
The pulp, nestled within your tooth, is a specialised tissue network responsible for feeding the dentinal fluid and supporting nerve fibres. Its resilience is remarkable, capable of diverting blood flow in response to pressure and inflammation. This complex system is why maintaining a healthy pulp-dentine complex is crucial for your tooth’s longevity.
Your tooth’s structure is far more than just a simple chewing tool—it’s a masterpiece of biological engineering. As dentists, our role is to protect this intricate system, preserving the natural function of your teeth wherever possible. After all, nothing artificial can replicate the genius of your own teeth.
