Stages of tooth development
The stages of tooth development are shown in these diagrams and corresponding microscopic images. Tooth development in humans begins between 6 to 8 weeks of gestation and proceeds through four stages termed bud, cap, bell and crown.
Bud stage >
The bud stage is the first canonical stage in the process of tooth formation and resembles a small rounded mass connected to the overlying oral epithelium. The bud is surround by a unique connective tissue, called ectomesenchyme, that also forms a portion of the tooth.
Cap stage >
The cap stage results from a differential rate of cell proliferation in the epithelial cells of the bud, resulting in a concave structure resembling a cup. Histodifferentiation occurs at this stage of tooth development.
Bell stage >
During the bell stage of tooth development, the morphology of the tooth is determined. The bell stage is marked by cytodifferentiation of the cells involved in tooth development, formation of successional laminae that give rise to permanent teeth, and degeneration of the dental lamina.
Crown stage >
During the crown stage of tooth development the hard tissues of the tooth (dentine, enamel and cementum) are deposited, beginning at the cusp of the tooth.
Image source >
Diagrams modified from Liversidge, HM, Developmental Juvenile Osteology, 2016.
