odontologytooth

Odontology, the study of teeth, is a branch of dental science that examines the structure, development, function, health, and disease of teeth, as well as methods for their preservation and restoration. The term derives from Greek odontos, meaning tooth, and logos, meaning study. The combined form "odontologytooth" is not a standard term in the field; this article uses odontology as the scholarly foundation and describes the tooth itself and related topics.

The scope of odontology includes both basic biological science and applied clinical practice. Core areas cover dental anatomy, histology, and embryology (odontogenesis), as well as clinical disciplines such as cariology (tooth decay), endodontics (inside-the-tooth treatment), orthodontics (tooth and jaw alignment), periodontics (supporting structures of the teeth), prosthodontics (replacement of missing teeth), and oral surgery. Forensic odontology is a specialized application that uses dental evidence for identification and analysis in legal contexts.

Tooth structure comprises crown and root, with hard tissues such as enamel, dentin, and cementum, and soft tissues including the dental pulp. The periodontium, consisting of the periodontal ligament and surrounding bone, anchors the tooth in the jaw. Tooth development, or odontogenesis, begins in embryonic life through interactions of the enamel organ, dental papilla, and dental sac, passing through stages commonly described as bud, cap, and bell, followed by eruption and root formation.

Education and practice typically involve a professional degree in dentistry (such as DDS or DMD) and specialization in fields like endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics, or oral surgery. Odontology informs clinical care, public health, and forensic science, contributing to diagnosis, treatment planning, and understanding of tooth-related health and disease. See also forensic odontology and dental anthropology for related topics.