Which component of the tooth allows for sensation?

The pulp is the correct component of the tooth that allows for sensation. Within the tooth, the pulp chamber contains nerve endings and blood vessels, making it highly sensitive to various stimuli, such as temperature changes, mechanical pressure, and certain chemical reactions. This sensitivity plays a crucial role in the tooth's overall function and health, as it signals the presence of pain or discomfort that might indicate underlying issues such as decay or infection.

While enamel is the outer layer of the tooth and provides protection, it does not have nerve endings and therefore does not contribute to sensation. Cementum covers the roots of the teeth and serves to anchor the tooth to the jawbone but also lacks sensation capability. Dentine, which lies beneath enamel and cementum and surrounds the pulp, is more sensitive than enamel or cementum but has fewer nerve endings compared to the pulp. Thus, while dentine can transmit some sensations to the pulp, it is the pulp itself that is primarily responsible for the sensation experienced in teeth.

In summary, the pulp is essential for the sensation in teeth due to its rich supply of nerve endings and its role in signaling changes in the tooth's environment.