tooth eruption

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The tooth development process in which the teeth enter the mouth and become visible. [Wikipedia:Tooth_eruption]

Tooth eruption, also known as odontogenesis, is a complex biological process that brings teeth into their functional position in the oral cavity. It begins with the development of tooth buds within the jawbone and involves a series of coordinated events:

1. **Initiation:** Tooth development begins with the formation of tooth buds, which are localized thickenings of the oral epithelium. These buds will give rise to the various components of the tooth, including the enamel, dentin, pulp, and cementum.

2. **Bud Stage:** The tooth bud invaginates and differentiates into an inner enamel epithelium (IEE) and an outer enamel epithelium (OEE). The IEE will ultimately form the enamel, while the OEE will contribute to the formation of the dental follicle.

3. **Cap Stage:** The IEE further invaginates, forming a cap-like structure that surrounds the dental papilla. The dental papilla will give rise to the dentin and pulp of the tooth.

4. **Bell Stage:** The IEE and OEE continue to differentiate, forming the enamel organ. The dental papilla develops into the dental pulp, and the dental follicle forms around the entire tooth germ.

5. **Apposition and Maturation:** Enamel, dentin, and cementum are deposited by specialized cells, known as ameloblasts, odontoblasts, and cementoblasts, respectively. The tooth crown is fully formed during this stage.

6. **Eruption:** As the tooth develops, it is pushed through the gingiva (gums) and into the oral cavity. This process involves the coordinated action of several factors, including:
* **Bone Resorption:** Osteoclasts break down bone tissue, creating space for the tooth to erupt.
* **Tooth Root Formation:** The root of the tooth continues to develop, anchoring it into the jawbone.
* **Gingival Recession:** The gingiva recedes, exposing the crown of the tooth.

7. **Occlusion:** Once the tooth has erupted, it comes into contact with opposing teeth, establishing a functional bite.

Tooth eruption is a continuous process that spans several years. Different tooth types erupt at different ages, following a predictable pattern known as the "dental eruption sequence".'
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