Can you name every type of tooth in your mouth? Do you know how many of each tooth you have or what your teeth do?
Generally, every mouth has four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. Children typically have twenty primary teeth while adults usually have thirty-two. As you probably know, each type of tooth serves different functions. For instance, incisors are used for cutting food. Cuspids, which are also known as canines, are used for tearing and grasping. Premolars are used for crushing and tearing food, while molars are used for grinding and chewing.
While this information could be useful, it’s important to know that if you don’t care for your smile well, you could damage your teeth. If you wear your teeth down or crack your smile, your teeth won’t function as well as they could, you could experience pain in your jaw, or be more prone to tooth decay.
Similarly, it can be important to understand a tooth’s structure. Consisting of three portions, the crown is the visible part of the tooth and the root is the portion that moves through your gums and into the bone. Between the two is a tooth’s neck. If the center of your crown is injured, you could have to deal with tooth discoloration or need root canal therapy.
Would you like to learn more about your teeth? Are you interested in learning more about what the different pieces of your smile do? Are you just interested in scheduling an appointment with our team at Riverfront Dental LLC? If so, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 503.370.7651. Dr. Scott Howe and our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have.