Dental Pathology

Teeth play a very important role in a person's survival. Without a decent set of teeth, a person cannot eat, and thus, survive. They also give a lot of clues to a person's life history and cultural practices.

Basic Anatomy:
Enamel - really hard
Dentin - not so hard
Pulp - nerve endings

Dental disease starts out as the interaction between bacteria, saliva, and carbohydrates. If left unchecked, the bacteria can cause the deterioration of the tooth enamel, followed by the pulp, root, and surrounding soft tissue. Infection of the teeth can lead to either tooth loss or severe infection (abscess).

Plaque and Calculus

Cavities
Gingiva and Tooth Loss
Abscesses
Other Things You'll See
Disruption in Formation
References