Your Teeth – Teeth Names and Functions
Eating, speaking, and smiling are some of the fantastic things your teeth do for you. Do you know why your teeth come in different shapes and sizes? Have you ever wondered why your teeth evolved to function as they do? Believe it or not, your teeth have very specific purposes. We’ve offered a few facts about teeth to help you understand what they do for you. At 32 Pearls, we’ve got all you need to know about teeth names and functions.
Tooth Education – Types & Duties
Five different types of teeth grow in a human’s mouth. These teeth are known as incisors, canines, molars, premolars, and (third) molars. There are two sets of teeth that grow, starting with the baby teeth known as primary teeth. A child has about twenty primary teeth that are later replaced with thirty-two permanent teeth. Not everyone grows a perfect set of 32 teeth. Some teeth do not ever show themselves due to developmental changes, smaller mouth sizes, or other reasons. The most important thing is that you take care of the number of teeth that you have.
Thirty-two teeth include eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, twelve molars.
Here we share the different types of teeth, their marvels, and why they truly are as marvelous as pearls. If you take care of them, they will last for many years to come.
Incisors – Incisors are the eight teeth that lie front and center of the mouth. The word “incisor” comes from the Latin word “incedere,” which means cut. They are sharp and cut through food. The two incisors in the middle are called central incisors, and the two on the sides are known as lateral incisors.
Canines – The canines are the four-pointed teeth that hang up or down like tiny fangs. They are the sharpest teeth in the mouth and tear food apart to make the digestion process easier. They are also known as incisors, cuspids, eyeteeth, and fangs. There are four of them in total. Two up top and two on the bottom.
Premolars – The premolars are behind the canines and are known as bicuspids or deciduous molars. Premolars are known as transition teeth because they act as and share the qualities of molars and canines. Their main function is to hold food and grind it. Four premolars exist on opposite sides of the mouth on the top and the bottom.
Molars – The molars are the wide flat teeth in the back of the mouth. Their primary function is to grind food, but they also sustain the forceful grinding activity of other teeth. Molars are the last to develop in young children. Wisdom teeth are molars that erupt last in children throughout their teen years.
The teeth are the strongest and hardest component of the human body. Their substance is durably strong, and if they are taken care of, they forego the lifespan of humans and animals.
What are teeth made of?
Enamel – Enamel is the white color of the tooth which is made mostly out of calcium phosphate.
Dentin – Dentin lies underneath the tooth enamel surface and has a hard structure that holds tiny, softer tubes known as dental pulp. The cementum is a soft layer that holds dentin in place.
Gums – Gums are the soft outer layer of the tooth. Their main purpose is to protect and provide a seal around teeth and the nerve endings that attach to them.
Pulp – The soft tissue inside of teeth is the pulp. The jelly-like pulp lives in the deepest part of the tooth and holds the nerves, tooth connectors, and delicate tissues. The pulp should remain inside of the tooth. When the pulp is exposed or is damaged, the likelihood of tooth decay is present.
Take care of your teeth, and they will take care of you.
Taking care of your teeth does not have to be a big deal. It’s quite easy to do the things that keep your dental visits minimal. These are just a few simple tips to keep your teeth healthy, which also help maintain your overall physical health. Practice these techniques and enjoy good strong teeth and healthy gums.
- Brush your teeth twice a day in gentle round strokes. Brushing for 2 minutes is optimum with a soft bristle brush.
- Floss between your teeth once a day or after you eat for best results.
- Rinse with mouthwash to help wash away food particles and freshen your breath.
- Drink lots of water throughout the day.
- Don’t smoke or vape.
- Stay away from foods and drinks that stain your teeth.
- See your dentist regularly.
If you have any questions regarding problems with your teeth, such as periodontal disease or other oral health concerns, please see our wide array of services, blog series, or contact us.
32 Pearls is your #1 source for Seattle dental care.
We are known for our integrity, reliability, and honest, direct approach to oral healthcare. We have two locations available in Seattle and Tacoma. We are family dentistry with a desire to serve yours.
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32 Pearls are Invisalign-approved dentists and are Top 1% Diamond Invisalign providers.
