What is the hard white substance that covers the crown of the tooth?

The hard white substance that covers the crown of the tooth is enamel. Enamel is the outermost layer of the tooth and is composed primarily of minerals, making it one of the hardest substances in the human body. Its primary function is to protect the sensitive inner layers of the tooth from decay, acids, and physical wear. Since it does not contain any living cells or nerves, enamel serves as a critical barrier against the external environment and provides the tooth with its bright, shiny appearance.

Gingiva refers to the gums, which are soft tissues surrounding the teeth and providing support. Dentin is the layer beneath the enamel that makes up the bulk of the tooth structure, providing support and strength but is not hard and white like enamel. Cementum is the material covering the roots of the tooth and helps anchor it in the jawbone, but it is not found on the crown of the tooth. This understanding helps locate enamel's unique position as the protective outer layer specifically for the crown.