A set of teeth refers to the collective arrangement, composition, and condition of the teeth inside the human mouth or the oral cavity of an animal. It consists of one's permanent, natural teeth that typically grow in two separate arches: the maxillary arch, which houses the upper teeth, and the mandibular arch, which contains the lower teeth. A complete set of teeth in an adult human generally comprises 32 teeth, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
The set of teeth is vital for a variety of essential functions, primarily mastication or chewing, which is crucial for the mechanical breakdown of food for digestion. Teeth also play a crucial role in speech, enabling pronunciation of various sounds and facilitating communication. Additionally, teeth contribute to facial appearance by providing support to the lips and cheeks, resulting in an individual's aesthetic appearance and smile.
Dental health significantly influences an individual's overall well-being, as problems within the set of teeth can lead to discomfort, pain, difficulty eating, and speech impediments. Regular dental care, including brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential to maintain a healthy set of teeth throughout one's life. Various dental treatments, such as fillings, root canals, extractions, and orthodontic procedures, may be required to resolve dental issues and maintain the integrity and function of the set of teeth.
