Teeth
Teeth
Teeth (/ti:θ/) are hard, calcified structures found in the jaws (or mouths) of many vertebrates that are used to break down food. The roots of teeth are covered by gums. Teeth are not made of bone, but rather of multiple tissues of varying density and hardness that originate from the embryonic germ layer, the ectoderm.
Etymology
The word "tooth" comes from the Old English tōþ, from Proto-Germanic *tanþs, from Proto-Indo-European *h₁dónts.
Types of Teeth
There are four different types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Each type has a unique role in the process of mechanically breaking down items of food.
Incisors
Incisors are the eight teeth in the front of the mouth (four on top and four on bottom). These are the teeth that you use to take bites of your food. Incisors are usually the first teeth to erupt, at around 6 months of age for the first primary (baby) incisors and between 6 and 8 years of age for the first permanent ones.
Canines
Canines are the next type of teeth to develop. These are the sharp, pointed teeth that sit next to the incisors and look like fangs. Dentists also call them cuspids or eyeteeth.
Premolars
Premolars, also called bicuspids, are the teeth located between the canine and molar teeth. In humans, there are two premolars per quadrant in the permanent set of teeth, making eight premolars total in the mouth. They have at least two cusps.
Molars
Molars are the flat teeth in the rear of the mouth. They grind the food prior to swallowing.
Related Terms
- Dentition: The arrangement or condition of the teeth in a particular species or individual.
- Enamel: The hard, outermost layer of a tooth.
- Dentin: The layer underlying the enamel.
- Pulp: The soft, innermost layer of a tooth, containing nerves and blood vessels.
- Crown (tooth): The top part of a tooth, covered by enamel.
- Root (tooth): The part of a tooth that is embedded in the jaw and serves as support.
- Periodontal ligament: The tissue that helps hold the teeth tightly against the jaw.
- Gingiva: Also known as gums, are the soft tissue covering the necks of the teeth and the alveolar parts of the jaws.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Teeth
- Wikipedia's article - Teeth
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