The Anatomy of Your Teeth
December 14, 2021 Image Credit:Not only are the teeth one of the most complex anatomical structures in our bodies, but they also hold unique importance in history as they are crucial for the study of evolution. The tooth has a unique tissue composition that is only found in the oral cavity. Within the human body, the teeth are the hardest substance. This could be because they evolved to support chewing and biting. However, the teeth also play a crucial role in our ability to talk and form speech. The average adult human being has a set of 32 teeth in their mouth. However, most people opt to have their wisdom teeth removed. Hence, this leaves them with 28 teeth. These are:
- 8 Incisors: The four frontal teeth; the middle teeth of the upper and lower jaws.
- 4 Canines: The four teeth just outside the incisors are known as canines.
- 8 Premolars: The next two teeth following each canine are known as the premolars.
- 8 Molars: If your wisdom teeth haven’t erupted yet, or you’ve had them surgically removed, the molars would be the last four teeth on the upper and lower jaws. These are stronger than other teeth, as they are meant to grind food.
- 4 Wisdom Teeth or Third Molars: If you have a set of 32 teeth, the last tooth on each side of the upper and lower jaw is known as the third set of molars or wisdom teeth. However, human evolution has diminished our need for wisdom teeth. And since they can displace other teeth, it is generally recommended to have them surgically removed.
Tooth Structure:
A human tooth consists of the following parts:- Enamel: The white and hard outer part of teeth.
- Dentin: A layer of hard tissue under the enamel.
- Pulp: The inner structure of teeth that is softer than the surface.
- Cementum: Connective tissues that bind the roots of the teeth to the gums.
- Periodontal Ligament: The innermost layer of the teeth. These are tissues that help our jaws hold the teeth firmly in place.