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Dentistry/teeth roots

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Question
What color are the roots of human teeth?

Answer
Susan - Roots of a tooth are made of the same material that lies under the surface layer of the crown of the tooth you can see.  The surface layer is a material called enamel, which has a white appearance.  Below is a layer called dentin.  The dentin is yellowish relative to the white enamel.  The roots of a tooth are made of the same dentin and, as such, are yellowish compared to the crown of the tooth.  The yellow color varies between individuals just as the crown of one person's tooth may be whiter than another person.

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Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired

Expertise

I am a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and I am available to answer questions related to tooth extractions, implant insertion, facial recontruction, facial and oral tumor removal, TMJ dysfunction and various successful treatments, including surgery if all else fails, and occlusal discrepancy requiring orthognathic or jaw surgery.

Experience

Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicine for over 20 years. Assistant Clincal Professor and State University School of Dentistry.

Organizations
American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Education/Credentials
BA -University of Connecticut DMD - University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

Awards and Honors
National Honor Society (OKU), Philadelphia County Dental Society, Mosby Book Award, Oral Surgery Honors, Summa Cum Laude

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