How Many Teeth Do Humans Have? - Surya Dental Care



One of the most common questions people have about teeth is, "How many teeth should I have?" In short, humans have 20 baby teeth, also known as primary teeth, and eventually develop 32 adult teeth, or secondary teeth. These teeth come in various types, each with distinct functions and shapes. This blog post explores the different types of teeth, their functions, locations, and quantities.

Types of Teeth

Humans have four main types of teeth:

  1. Incisors
  2. Canines
  3. Premolars
  4. Molars

Incisors

There are eight incisors in an adult's mouth, with four in the upper jaw (maxillary incisors) and four in the lower jaw (mandibular incisors). The primary functions of incisors include:

  • Cutting or shearing food with their sharp edges.
  • Assisting in pronouncing words.
  • Supporting the lips and maintaining their position.

Canines

Canine teeth, also known as eye teeth, are located next to the incisors and first molar teeth, beneath the eye socket. These teeth typically appear between the ages of 17 and 23. Canines help in:

  • Cutting and tearing food.
  • Assisting in speech and pronunciation.
  • Maintaining teeth positions during jaw motions.

Premolars

Premolars, or transitional teeth, transfer food from the front to the back of the mouth for proper breakdown. Located between the canines and molars, humans have four sets of premolars (two sets in the maxillary and two in the mandibular).

Molars

Molars are the largest and strongest flat teeth located at the back of the mouth. Adults typically have 12 molars, three on each side of the upper and lower jaws. There are three types of molars:

  • First Molars: Erupt between ages 6-7.
  • Second Molars: Erupt between ages 12-13.
  • Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): Erupt between ages 17-21.

Dentists often recommend removing wisdom teeth as they may become impacted or damage the jaw bone. The first molars are crucial for the appearance of the face and play a significant role in occlusion and jaw alignment.

Primary Teeth (Baby Teeth)

Babies are born without teeth but typically develop their first teeth around six months. By the age of 2-3 years, they have a complete set of 20 primary teeth, which are smaller and whiter than permanent teeth. Primary teeth include:

  • Eight incisors (four on top, four on bottom)
  • Four canines (two on top, two on bottom)
  • Eight molars (four on top, four on bottom)

Secondary Teeth (Adult Teeth)

Around age 6 or 7, primary teeth start to fall out, and permanent teeth begin to emerge. By adulthood, a person usually has 32 secondary teeth, which are darker due to thicker enamel and dentin layers. Secondary teeth include:

  • Eight incisors (four on top, four on bottom)
  • Four canines (two on top, two on bottom)
  • Eight premolars (four on top, four on bottom)
  • Twelve molars (six on top, six on bottom), including four wisdom teeth

Is Everyone Supposed to Have 32 Secondary Teeth?

Not everyone has all 32 permanent teeth. By age 21, most adults have 32 teeth (16 in each jaw). However, some people may have fewer than 32 teeth due to wisdom teeth removal, congenital absence, tooth extraction, or dental trauma. Wisdom teeth can also emerge between ages 21-25 for some individuals.

Caring for Your Teeth

Good oral hygiene is essential for the health and longevity of both primary and secondary teeth. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss daily, and visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings.

Takeaway

Teeth are vital for digestion, bone structure, speech, jaw alignment, eating, and lip support. Each type of tooth has a specific function and shape, making it essential to maintain proper dental hygiene. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can prevent toothache, decay, and impacted wisdom teeth, ensuring a healthy mouth and beautiful smile.

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