Endodontics primarily focuses on which part of a tooth?

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that concerns the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases and conditions affecting the dental pulp and the tissues surrounding the roots of a tooth. The dental pulp, located at the center of the tooth, is a soft tissue that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. When there is an issue such as decay, an infection, or inflammation affecting the pulp, endodontic treatment, commonly known as a root canal, may be necessary to save the tooth.

The other choices relate to different components of the tooth or surrounding structures. Enamel is the hard, outer surface that protects the tooth, cementum covers the roots and helps anchor the tooth within the jaw, and gingiva refers to the gum tissue surrounding the teeth. While these structures are vital for overall dental health, they fall outside the primary focus of endodontics, which is specifically concerned with the dental pulp.