Teeth: Structure, Types, and Functions

Our teeth not only perform essential functions such as chewing and speaking but are also a vital part of our smile from an aesthetic perspective. To understand the importance of oral health, it is necessary to comprehend the structure and functions of teeth. Our teeth are arranged in orderly rows in the upper (maxilla) and lower (mandible) jaws, forming a total of 32 teeth. This arrangement ensures proper occlusion (bite) and efficient chewing.

BASIC STRUCTURE OF TEETH

From the outside in, our teeth consist of the following layers:

• Enamel: The outermost layer of the tooth and the hardest structure in the human body. It is resistant to pressure during chewing and protects the tooth from acids.
• Dentin: A softer layer beneath the enamel. It connects the enamel to the pulp and contains channels that can cause sensitivity.
• Pulp: The soft tissue at the center of the tooth. It consists of nerves and blood vessels, providing nourishment and sensitivity to the tooth.
• Cementum: A thin layer covering the tooth root, connecting it to the jawbone. Along with periodontal ligaments, it helps keep the tooth stable.

TYPES OF TEETH AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

Teeth have specific alignments and characteristics to perform different functions. Here are the types of teeth and their detailed descriptions:

1. Incisors

• Central Incisors:Located at the center of the jaw. There are four in total, two in the upper and two in the lower jaw.Used for cutting food.Aesthetically important.
• Located at the center of the jaw. There are four in total, two in the upper and two in the lower jaw.
• Used for cutting food.
• Aesthetically important.
• Lateral Incisors:Positioned next to the central incisors, with a total of four (two in the upper and two in the lower jaw).Assist in cutting.Narrower and more rounded at the edges.
• Positioned next to the central incisors, with a total of four (two in the upper and two in the lower jaw).
• Assist in cutting.
• Narrower and more rounded at the edges.

2. Canines (Cuspids)

• A total of four (two in the upper jaw, two in the lower jaw), located next to the lateral incisors.
• Their sharp edges help grasp and tear food.
• They have the longest roots, providing structural support to the jaw.

3. Premolars (Bicuspids)

• A total of eight (four in the upper jaw, four in the lower jaw), located behind the canines.
• Begin the process of grinding and chewing food.
• Have both sharp and flat surfaces, making them multifunctional.

4. Molars

• A total of twelve (six in the upper jaw, six in the lower jaw).
• Types:First and Second Molars: Eight in total, used for grinding and chewing food. They have broad and flat chewing surfaces.Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): Four in total. Some individuals may not develop them, or they may have abnormalities. They often need to be extracted.
• First and Second Molars: Eight in total, used for grinding and chewing food. They have broad and flat chewing surfaces.
• Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): Four in total. Some individuals may not develop them, or they may have abnormalities. They often need to be extracted.