Permanent Teeth

There are

32 permanent teeth
in the human mouth.

- Definition: Permanent teeth are the second set of teeth that replace the primary teeth (also known as baby teeth) once they fall out.

Types of Permanent Teeth

- Incisors: There are 8 incisors in total, 4 in the upper jaw (2 central incisors and 2 lateral incisors) and 4 in the lower jaw (2 central incisors and 2 lateral incisors). Incisors are responsible for biting and cutting food.

- Canines: There are 4 canines, 2 in the upper jaw (1 on each side) and 2 in the lower jaw (1 on each side). Canines are sharp and pointed teeth used for tearing and grasping food.

- Premolars: There are 8 premolars, 4 in the upper jaw (2 on each side) and 4 in the lower jaw (2 on each side). Premolars have a flat surface with cusps that help in chewing and grinding food.

- Molars: There are 12 molars, 6 in the upper jaw (3 on each side) and 6 in the lower jaw (3 on each side). Molars have a larger surface area with multiple cusps for efficient grinding and chewing of food.

- Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): Some individuals may also have four additional teeth called third molars or wisdom teeth, which usually erupt in the late teens or early twenties. However, not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and they may need to be extracted if they cause problems such as impaction or crowding.

Importance of Permanent Teeth

Permanent teeth play a crucial role in the overall oral health and function of an individual. They help in:

- Proper chewing and digestion of food.
- Speech articulation and pronunciation.
- Maintaining the alignment and spacing of other teeth.
- Supporting the facial structure and appearance.
- Boosting self-confidence and social interaction.

Care for Permanent Teeth

To keep permanent teeth healthy and strong, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including:

- Brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Flossing daily to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients and avoiding excessive sugar consumption.
- Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings to detect and prevent any dental issues.
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports activities to protect teeth from injury.

By taking care of our permanent teeth, we can ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles and optimal oral health.