Human teeth refer to the hard, calcified structures that are found in the mouth of humans, specifically in the jawbone. They are used for the primary purpose of masticating and breaking down food for digestion. Teeth play an integral role in the process of consuming and speaking. They are centrally located within the oral cavity, set firmly in the maxilla (upper jaw) and mandible (lower jaw) bone structures.
Human teeth are classified based on their specific function and position within the mouth. The arrangement of teeth includes four types: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Incisors are located at the front of the mouth and are used for biting and cutting food, whereas canines are positioned on either side of the incisors and assist in tearing and grasping food. The premolars, situated behind the canines, further aid in chewing and grinding food. Lastly, molars, found at the back of the mouth, have the primary purpose of crushing and grinding food for proper digestion.
Adults typically have a total of 32 teeth, comprising eight incisors, four canines, eight premolars, and twelve molars. The primary dentition, commonly referred to as baby teeth or milk teeth, consists of 20 teeth, with ten in each jaw. Throughout a person's lifetime, teeth may vary in shape, size, and color, influenced by factors such as genetics, dental hygiene, aging, and dental treatments. Human teeth are protected by enamel, the strongest tissue in the body, and can be affected by various dental conditions such as cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease if proper oral care is neglected. Dental health is essential in maintaining overall well-being and is often supported through regular dental visits, proper brushing, flossing, and
