The teeth are usually numbered using the universal numbering system.
The numbers 1-32 are used to designate the teeth in the permanent dentition. The number 1 designates the tooth located furthest to the right of the upper jaw, when looking at the mouth. Conversely, the number 32 designates the tooth located furthest to the left of the lower jaw. In this system, teeth are grouped into quadrants, with quadrant 1 being the upper right, quadrant 2 being the upper left, quadrant 3 being the lower left, and quadrant 4 being the lower right. Therefore, the tooth numbered 16 would be located in quadrant 4 of the mouth.
The teeth are also often divided into two main categories: the incisors and the molars. The incisors are used for biting and cutting food. The molars are located towards the back of the mouth and they are used for grinding and crushing food.
When a dentist is referring to a specific tooth, they will usually use both the number and the quadrant, which is how they can refer to the correct tooth from an OPG x ray. For example, they might say 'tooth number 16 in quadrant 4' or 'the upper left incisor.'There are a total of 32 teeth in the permanent dentition, and they have specific names depending on their location and function. The incisors are at the front. The canine teeth are located next to the incisors, and there are two of them on both the top and bottom jaw. The premolars are located behind the canines, and there are four of them on both the top and bottom jaw. The molars are at the back. The names for each type of tooth are below.
Incisors: central incisor, lateral incisor
Canines: cuspid, eye tooth
Premolars: bicuspid, tricuspid
Molars: first molar, second molar, third molar (also called wisdom teeth)
The deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, have the same names as the permanent teeth. The deciduous teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth.
Baby teeth fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. Baby teeth may fall out by themselves around age 6. There are a total of 20 baby teeth, which include 10 incisors, 4 canines, and 6 molars.
A permanent tooth is a secondary tooth that erupts after the baby teeth have fallen out. Permanent teeth typically begin to erupt around age 6 and are complete by age 12-13. There are a total of 32 permanent teeth, which include 16 incisors, 8 canines, 8 premolars, and 4 molars (also called wisdom teeth).The main difference between a baby tooth and a permanent tooth is their size. Baby teeth are smaller than permanent teeth, and they have thinner enamel. Additionally, baby teeth have a rounded shape, while permanent teeth tend to be more pointy. Finally, baby teeth have shorter roots than permanent teeth. These differences are due to the fact that baby teeth are only meant to last for a few years, while permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime.
An adult human should have 32 teeth in their permanent dentition. This includes 16 incisors, 8 canines, 8 premolars, and 4 molars (also called wisdom teeth). Many adults have fewer than 32 teeth due to a variety of factors such as tooth decay, gum disease or injury. Additionally, some adults may have more than 32 teeth due to the presence of extra teeth (supernumerary teeth). These extra teeth are most often found near the back of the mouth, and they can cause crowding and other dental problems if they are not removed.
Ideally, adult teeth should last a lifetime. However, this is not always the case. Some adults may need to have their teeth extracted due to crowding or other dental problems.
Tooth decay is caused by plaque. Plaque may harden into tartar, which can lead to tooth decay if it is not removed. Gum disease can cause tooth loss. It is caused by the build-up of plaque on the teeth, and it can be treated by a dental professional.
Brushing regularly and flossing daily are critical. You should use dental floss that is comfortable for you and be gentle when flossing.
Visiting a dentist regularly is important. For more information on dental care, take a look at HealthDirect.