The Chewing Surfaces Of The Posterior Teeth Are Called
When it comes to oral health, it's important to understand the different parts of your teeth. Your teeth are more than just the white parts that you see when you smile. They have different surfaces that perform different functions. In this article, we will focus on the chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth and what they are called.
What Are Posterior Teeth?
Posterior teeth are the teeth that are located towards the back of your mouth. They are also known as your molars and premolars. These teeth are responsible for grinding and chewing your food, so they have a different shape and structure than your front teeth.
The Different Surfaces of Posterior Teeth
Posterior teeth have several surfaces that are designed to help you chew your food effectively. These surfaces include:
Occlusal Surface
The occlusal surface is the chewing surface of your molars and premolars. It is the part of your teeth that comes into contact with your food when you chew. The occlusal surface has cusps and grooves that help break down your food into smaller pieces.
Buccal Surface
The buccal surface is the outer surface of your posterior teeth that faces your cheeks. It is smooth and flat, with no cusps or grooves. The buccal surface helps protect your teeth from damage and decay.
Lingual Surface
The lingual surface is the inner surface of your posterior teeth that faces your tongue. It is also smooth and flat, with no cusps or grooves. The lingual surface helps protect your teeth from damage and decay.
Mesial Surface
The mesial surface is the surface of your posterior teeth that faces towards the front of your mouth. It is the surface that is closest to your other teeth. The mesial surface helps keep your teeth in alignment and prevents them from shifting.
Distal Surface
The distal surface is the surface of your posterior teeth that faces towards the back of your mouth. It is the surface that is farthest away from your other teeth. The distal surface helps prevent food from getting stuck between your teeth.
Why Are These Surfaces Important?
The different surfaces of your posterior teeth are important for maintaining good oral health. The occlusal surface is responsible for breaking down your food so that it can be properly digested. The buccal and lingual surfaces help protect your teeth from damage and decay. The mesial and distal surfaces help keep your teeth in alignment and prevent food from getting stuck between them.
How Can You Take Care of Your Posterior Teeth?
To take care of your posterior teeth, it's important to practice good oral hygiene. This includes:
- Brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing at least once a day
- Using mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath
- Visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings
By taking care of your posterior teeth, you can maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
Conclusion
The chewing surfaces of the posterior teeth are called the occlusal, buccal, lingual, mesial, and distal surfaces. These surfaces are important for maintaining good oral health and proper digestion. By practicing good oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your posterior teeth healthy and prevent dental problems.