Large Grinding Teeth At The Back Of The Mouth
Have you ever wondered about the large grinding teeth at the back of your mouth? These teeth are called molars and they play a crucial role in the digestive process. In this article, we will explore the anatomy and function of molars in detail.
Anatomy of Molars
Molars are the largest teeth in the human mouth, located at the back of the jaw. They have a flat surface with ridges and bumps, which are designed to grind and crush food. The top surface of molars is called the occlusal surface, which is divided into four or five cusps.
The outer layer of the tooth is called enamel, which is the hardest substance in the human body. Underneath the enamel is dentin, which is softer than enamel but harder than bone. The innermost layer is the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels.
Types of Molars
There are three types of molars in each quadrant of the human mouth:
- First molars: These are the largest molars and erupt around the age of 6. They have five cusps on the occlusal surface.
- Second molars: These are smaller than first molars and erupt around the age of 12. They have four cusps on the occlusal surface.
- Third molars: These are also known as wisdom teeth and erupt around the age of 18-25. Some people may not develop wisdom teeth at all.
Function of Molars
Molars are designed to grind and crush food into smaller pieces, which makes it easier to swallow and digest. The ridges and bumps on the occlusal surface of molars help in breaking down tough and fibrous food such as meat and vegetables.
The digestive process starts in the mouth, where saliva mixes with food to form a bolus. The bolus is then pushed towards the back of the mouth by the tongue and teeth. The molars grind and crush the bolus, which mixes with enzymes in the stomach to break down further.
Maintaining Healthy Molars
Molars are prone to decay and cavities due to their location at the back of the mouth. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups can help in maintaining healthy molars.
It is also important to avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can erode the enamel and lead to tooth decay. Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D can help in maintaining strong and healthy teeth.
Conclusion
Molars are the largest teeth in the human mouth and play a crucial role in the digestive process. They are designed to grind and crush food into smaller pieces, which makes it easier to swallow and digest. Maintaining good oral hygiene and a balanced diet can help in maintaining healthy molars.
