Types of teeth and their functions

Your teeth are important as they allow you to you eat and speak, and they give your face a proper shape. You have two rows of teeth, upper and lower. These teeth are of different shapes and sizes because they have different functions. There are four types of teeth, namely incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

Human teeth are made up of four types which are: 

• Incisors: these are flat teeth with thin edges and are found in the front of the mouth. There eight incisors, four each in the upper and lower jaw. Incisors are good for biting into food. 
• Canines: these teeth have pointed ends and long roots and are on either side of the incisors. There are four canines, two each in the upper and lower jaw. The canines are useful for tearing food apart.
• Premolars: These are flatter teeth that sit next to the canines. There are eight of them in total, four each in the upper and lower jaw. They are made to crush your food to make it easier to digest.
• Molars: The molars sit at the back of the mouth. An adult has twelve permanent molars, six each in the upper and lower jaw. They are usually the biggest teeth in your mouth and have flat surfaces with ridges. Just like the premolars, they are there to crush foods. Molars have strong roots, which helps them bear the force from chewing. 

All together, an adult should have 32 teeth.

Here are some ways to ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy:

• Brush your teeth twice a day, spending approximately two minutes each time.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
• Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this strengthens the tooth enamel (the hard layer on the outside) and prevents tooth decay.
• Floss at least once a day to get rid of food that is stuck between your teeth. 
• Stop smoking tobacco, as smoking affects your teeth and gums. 
• Avoid sugary foods. If you do eat them, rinse your mouth with water to reduce acid levels in your mouth. The acid weakens your tooth enamel. Wait at least 30 minutes after eating sugary foods before you brush your teeth. Brushing sooner may damage the weakened enamel.
• You can also chew sugarless chewing gum to reduce acid levels.
• Eat a healthy diet. Include food rich in calcium and vitamins such as fruits, vegetables, milk and cheese. 
• Get a dental check every six months.

Healthy teeth are important to your overall health. Tooth loss and gum disease may lead to heart and kidney disease, and may allow infections to spread from your mouth to other parts of your body. Practicing good dental health can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. And a good set of teeth gives you a beautiful smile.