Dentin anchors the tooth in place.
A True
B False
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: B. False
Explanation:
Dentin does not anchor the tooth in place. Instead, dentin is a calcified tissue that lies beneath the enamel and forms the bulk of the tooth structure. It provides support to the enamel and protects the innermost pulp, where nerves and blood vessels are located. Although dentin plays a critical role in the strength and resilience of the tooth, it is not the structure responsible for anchoring the tooth into the jawbone.
The actual anchoring of the tooth is performed by the periodontal ligament, the cementum, and the alveolar bone:
- Cementum is a specialized calcified substance that covers the root of the tooth. It helps attach the tooth to the periodontal ligament.
- Periodontal ligament (PDL) is a group of connective tissue fibers that connect the cementum to the alveolar bone. These fibers function as a shock absorber during chewing and also help hold the tooth firmly in place.
- Alveolar bone is the part of the jawbone that contains the tooth sockets. It supports and stabilizes the teeth by housing the roots.
These three components work together to keep the tooth anchored securely in the mouth. In contrast, dentin does not play any role in the attachment or anchorage of the tooth. Its primary function is structural, supporting the enamel and protecting the pulp.
In summary, dentin contributes to tooth integrity and durability but does not anchor the tooth. That job is carried out by the supporting structures of the periodontium, making the statement “Dentin anchors the tooth in place” false.