Teeth Types & Functions

Understanding Our Teeth: A Fun Guide

Our teeth are super important! They help us eat yummy food and talk clearly. Let’s learn about the different types of teeth, what they do, and how to keep them healthy and strong.

The Basics of Teeth

People have two sets of teeth in their lives: baby teeth and adult teeth.

• Baby Teeth: These are also called milk teeth. Kids usually have 20 baby teeth. They start to come in when you’re about six months old and eventually fall out to make room for adult teeth.
• Adult Teeth: Grown-ups usually have 32 adult teeth. These teeth are different shapes and sizes, each with a special job to do.

Types of Teeth and Their Jobs

There are five main types of teeth, and each one has a special job:

1. Incisors:
   • Job: These are the teeth at the front of your mouth. They help you cut and bite into food.
   • How Many: Adults have eight incisors, four on the top and four on the bottom.
2. Canines:
   • Job: These pointy teeth are next to the incisors and help tear food.
   • How Many: There are four canines, two on the top and two on the bottom.
   • Fun Fact: Animals like rabbits have big incisors for cutting grass, while lions have sharp canines for tearing meat.
3. Premolars:
   • Job: These teeth are behind the canines and help grind food into smaller pieces.
   • How Many: Adults have eight premolars, four on the top and four on the bottom.
4. Molars:
   • Job: Molars are big teeth at the back of your mouth. They help chew and grind food.
   • How Many: Adults usually have 12 molars, including four wisdom teeth.
5. Wisdom Teeth:
   • Job: These are the last molars to come in, usually when you’re a teenager or young adult. They don’t do much for our modern diets and are often removed because there’s not enough space in the mouth.
   • How Many: There are usually four wisdom teeth, one in each corner of the mouth.

The Importance of Dental Health

Keeping your teeth clean is super important for staying healthy. Here are some tips to help you take care of your teeth:

• Brush Twice Daily: Use toothpaste with fluoride to keep cavities and gum disease away.
• Floss Daily: Flossing helps get rid of food and plaque between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and check-ups.
• Limit Sugary Foods: Eating less sugar can help stop tooth decay.

Conclusion

Knowing about the different types of teeth and what they do helps us understand why dental health is important. By taking care of our teeth, we can keep them strong and healthy for a long time. Remember, a bright smile is a big part of feeling good!