Parts of a tooth

Cross-section of tooth showing its parts: crown, enamel, dentin, root, pulp, and nerve and blood vessels, and the gums and bone around it

The crown is the part of the tooth that you can see above the gums. The root is the part of the tooth that is below the gums. The top layer of the crown is enamel. Below the enamel is dentin, which surrounds the pulp. Inside the pulp are the blood vessels and nerves of the tooth. Some teeth have only one or two roots, but molars can have four roots.

Current as of: September 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.