The Different Types Of Teeth And Their Function
Teeth play a significant role in our lives. They help us to bite and chew our food, speak, and maintain the structure of our face. However, not all teeth are the same. In fact, there are different types of teeth, each with a specific function. In this article, we will discuss the different types of teeth and their function.
Incisors
Incisors are the eight teeth located at the front of our mouth, four on the top and four on the bottom. They are flat and thin, and their main function is to bite into food. Incisors are also used to grip and hold objects, such as a pencil or a straw. They are the first teeth to erupt, usually around six months of age, and are often the first to be lost during childhood.
Canines
Canines are the four teeth located next to the incisors, two on the top and two on the bottom. They are sharp and pointed, and their primary function is to tear and shred food. Canines are also used for self-defense and are important for maintaining the shape of our face. Canines usually erupt between the ages of nine and twelve.
Pre-molars
Pre-molars, also known as bicuspids, are the eight teeth located between the canines and molars, four on the top and four on the bottom. They have two cusps or points, and their primary function is to crush and grind food. Pre-molars are also important in maintaining the shape of our face. Pre-molars usually erupt between the ages of ten and twelve.
Molars
Molars are the twelve teeth located at the back of our mouth, six on the top and six on the bottom. They have four or five cusps or points, and their primary function is to grind and crush food. Molars are also important in maintaining the height and shape of our face. Molars usually erupt between the ages of twelve and fourteen.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last teeth to erupt, usually between the ages of seventeen and twenty-five. Some people do not develop wisdom teeth, while others may have more than four. Wisdom teeth can cause problems if they do not have enough room to grow or if they grow at an angle. In these cases, they may need to be extracted.
Conclusion
Teeth are an essential part of our daily lives. Each type of tooth serves a specific function in our mouth, from biting and tearing to grinding and crushing food. It is essential to take care of our teeth by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. By maintaining good oral hygiene, we can ensure that our teeth will last a lifetime.