The correct spelling of the term "neck of a tooth" is /nɛk ʌv ə tuθ/. In phonetic transcription, the first syllable, /nɛk/, is pronounced with a short "e" sound, while the second syllable, /ʌv/, rhymes with "love." The final syllable, /ə tuθ/, is pronounced with a schwa sound followed by the "th" sound. The "neck of a tooth" refers to the area where the tooth's crown and root meet, hence the term "neck." Proper spelling is important in everyday communication and technical terminology.
The "neck of a tooth" refers to the narrow and concave portion of a tooth that connects the crown and the root. Situated at the gum line, the neck serves as a transitional area between the visible portion of the tooth, known as the crown, and the part of the tooth that is embedded within the jawbone, called the root. This region is critical for tooth stability and acts as a barrier to protect the underlying structures.
The neck of a tooth is characterized by its shape and anatomical features. It typically exhibits a slight indentation or constriction between the crown and the root, known as the cervix. This constriction marks the boundary between the enamel, which covers the crown, and the cementum, which covers the root.
The neck of a tooth plays an essential role in oral health. It is where the gum tissue attaches firmly, forming a seal to protect the underlying periodontal ligament and the bone holding the tooth in place. Any damage or infection occurring in this area can lead to gum disease or periodontitis, causing gum recession, mobility, and even tooth loss. Proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, are necessary to maintain the health of the neck of a tooth and prevent potential complications.
Collum dentis, the slightly constricted part of a tooth, covered by the gum, connecting the crown with the root.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.