Teeth are called by several names, depending on their type, location, and developmental stage. Humans have different types of teeth, each with a specific function.
Types of Teeth
- Incisors: These are your front teeth, used for biting and cutting food. Most adults have eight incisors. They are also sometimes called anterior teeth.
- Canines (Cuspid): These pointed teeth are located next to the incisors and are primarily used for tearing food. Adults typically have four canines.
- Premolars (Bicuspids): Situated behind the canines, premolars help with chewing and grinding food. Most adults possess eight premolars.
- Molars: These are the teeth at the back of your mouth, responsible for grinding and crushing food. Adults generally have twelve molars, including four wisdom teeth.
- Wisdom Teeth (Third Molars): These are the last molars to erupt, usually appearing in the late teens or early twenties.
Developmental Stages
Humans develop two sets of teeth:
- Primary Teeth (Baby Teeth/Deciduous Teeth): Children typically have 20 primary teeth, which are eventually replaced by permanent teeth.
- Permanent Teeth: Most adults have 32 permanent teeth, including wisdom teeth. The process of a tooth breaking through the gum line is called eruption or teething in babies.
The references consistently mention incisors, canines, premolars, and molars as the main types of teeth. The specific number of each type varies slightly based on individual development and potential absence of wisdom teeth. Different names like cuspid and bicuspid are also used interchangeably for canines and premolars, respectively.