Permanent teeth represent the final set of teeth that develop in humans. This dentition replaces the deciduous, or primary, teeth as they naturally exfoliate (fall out).
There are typically 32 permanent teeth in a complete set. These teeth are evenly distributed between the upper and lower jaws:
- 16 teeth are located in the maxilla (upper jaw).
- 16 teeth are located in the mandible (lower jaw).
Permanent teeth are classified into four distinct types, each serving different functions in the process of chewing and speaking. These classifications are:
- Incisors
- Canines
- Premolars
- Molars
A key difference when comparing permanent teeth to the primary teeth they replace is the inclusion of premolars in the permanent set. Primary teeth do not include premolars.
Here is a brief overview of the permanent dentition:
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Count | 32 |
| Location | 16 in Maxilla (Upper), 16 in Mandible (Lower) |
| Preceded By | Deciduous (Primary) teeth |
| Tooth Types | Incisors, Canines, Premolars, Molars |
| Distinguishing Feature | Includes Premolars (unlike primary teeth) |
Understanding the role and structure of permanent teeth is fundamental to oral health, as this set is designed to last throughout a person's life with proper care.
