That’s right, your teeth have living inner cores which make them function as individual organs. Though we focus mostly on the outside enamel of a tooth, there are several layers to teeth, each with its own important functions.
Tooth enamel protects the inner more fragile areas of teeth. Because it is not made of living cells, the body cannot repair damaged enamel. This incredibly durable substance ensures the pressure and friction of chewing, as well as the bacteria, plaque, acid, and other substances that pass through the mouth.
The next layer of tooth is called dentin. Dentin reinforces tooth enamel to help support the structure of the tooth. This tooth layer is home to cells called odontoblasts that help build teeth and eliminate unwanted microbes.
These outer layers main goal is to protect the inner core of the tooth – the pulp. The pulp is made up of connective tissue, blood vessels, and cells. It connects the tooth to the nervous system and blood supply.
The tooth connection to the rest of the body as well as it’s ability to protect, build, and repair itself, make a tooth a lot like a little organ in the mouth. When a tooth loses blood and nerve supply, it is considered a “dead tooth,” which accelerates the rate of decay and eventually becomes a candidate for root canal treatment.
Teeth are very much alive, and need to be taken care of from both the inside and outside to maintain oral health.