Short Description
The part of a tooth embedded in the jawbone, anchoring it in place and housing nerves and blood vessels within the root canal.
Long Description
The root is the portion of a tooth that extends below the gumline and into the jawbone, securing the tooth in place. Each tooth can have one or multiple roots, depending on its type, with molars typically having more roots for added stability.
The root contains the pulp, which houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. It is covered by cementum, a protective layer that helps anchor the tooth to the surrounding periodontal ligament and bone. If the root becomes exposed due to gum recession or decay, it can lead to sensitivity and an increased risk of infection.
Proper oral hygiene helps protect the roots by preventing gum disease and decay. If a root becomes infected or damaged, treatments like root canal therapy or extraction may be necessary to prevent further complications.