The 4 unique types of teeth
Have you ever had a really good look at all of the teeth in your mouth? Perhaps you have noticed that there are a few different shapes, but did you know that there are actually four different types of teeth? Each one performing a different job, not only in relation to chewing and digesting food, but also in regard to speech. The health of your teeth can also impact your overall health.
The 4 types of teeth and their function: Each type of tooth has its own unique shape that allows it to perform a different task. These different types of teeth are:
Incisors – Making up the eight front teeth (four upper and four lower) are the incisors. Their flat, thin shape allows you to bite into food. They are generally the first of your teeth to erupt.
Canines – The second set of teeth to develop are your four canines, also referred to as “fangs” due to their sharpness and use for ripping and tearing food apart.
Premolars – Also known as bicuspids, but much more easily pronounced as premolars, function as the chewers and grinders of food. In adults, there are four premolars on each side of the mouth (two upper and two lower).
Molars – Also functioning as chewers and grinders. There are six permanent molars on each side (three upper and three lower) that all sit at the back of your jaw, behind the premolars.
Amongst the molars, bringing up the rear, are the wisdom teeth, or third molars. These are the last teeth to develop, with some people not developing them at all.
Most adults will have a total of 32 permanent teeth, and as the name suggests they are the final teeth that you will grow. This is why it is vitally important to take good care of them to ensure that they last a lifetime. At Tindale Dental Centre, Penrith, our dentists provide the highest quality care to ensure that your teeth remain healthy well into the future! Contact our caring team on 4722 6115 and schedule a check-up to improve your lasting oral health.