Teeth Names and Types of Teeth in English with Pictures

Last updated on July 17, 2024 by Liam Daniel

Ever wondered what each of your teeth is called and why it matters? This article aims to teach English learners the specific vocabulary for the different types of teeth, providing a clearer picture of dental health. Knowledge of teeth names is essential for effective communication with dental professionals and understanding oral health.

Teeth Names and their Functions

Teeth Names Pin
Teeth Names – Created by 7ESL

There are different teeth names, each having a specific function. Humans are referred to as diphyodont as they develop two sets of teeth in their lifetime. The first teeth dentition is referred to as primary dentition, where it involves the first set of temporary teeth which start to develop by the 14th week inside the uterus.

The second dentition is referred to as Permanent or adult teeth dentition, which is usually attained by the time you turn 15 years of age. Your teeth consist of four main parts: the pulp, the innermost part, dentin, which surrounds your pulp and is responsible for the yellow tinge your teeth get. The enamel functions to protect your teeth from infections caused by microorganisms, and the cementum, which fixes your tooth to your gum, thus ensuring the stability of your teeth.

Incisors

These are the most anterior middlemost teeth. They have a sharp incisal edge adapted to cutting food.

Canines

Also referred to as cuspids or fang tooth. These are considered as one of the most important teeth in your body. They aid in controlling how your teeth slide on each other and tearing food. Canines have the longest roots of the four types of teeth in your mouth.

Premolars

These teeth are next and behind your canines. They possess 3-4 cusps and are rarely found in your primary dentition. Their functions include; grinding and mixing food.

Molars

Molars are used for grinding and chewing food, primarily found in your secondary tooth dentation. They have at least 4-5 cusps and are a bit larger than your premolars.

Wisdom Teeth

Wisdom teeth usually erupt when you are a teenager or in your late twenties. They are the third and final set of your molars and are mostly removed by dentists due to misalignment, which causes discomfort.

Types of Teeth and Number

There is a total number of 32 teeth in an adult’s mouth and at least 20 primary teeth in a child by the time they turn 3.

Different teeth names and the total number of each tooth in your mouth:

  • The incisors: the total number is 8 with 4 teeth in each jaw
  • The canines: the total number is 4 with 2 teeth in each jaw
  • The premolars: the total number is 8, with each jaw having 4 teeth
  • The molars: the total number is 8 for the first two sets of teeth and 4 for the 3rd set of teeth

Key takeaway

The age at which different teeth erupt varies from one person to another. Practicing good oral hygiene ensures that your teeth stay healthy and saves you money spent treating tooth diseases. Brushing your teeth more than three times a day for about 2-3 minutes helps reduce and prevent dental diseases such as gingivitis and oral cavities.

Scheduling an appointment with your dentist at least twice a year will help you maintain healthy teeth free from diseases.

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