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You brush your teeth every day and visit your dentist to keep your mouth healthy, but do you know how your teeth actually work? Each type has a unique purpose, helping us digest our food properly. This guide will explain the five main tooth types and how they function.

What Is the Purpose of Each Type of Tooth?

1. Incisors

dentistStarting in the front of your mouth, you have eight incisors—four on top and four on the bottom. These pearly whites do more than show off your smile. They work together to help you eat. Their narrow edges cut through food with ease, so you can move it back in your mouth to chew more. 

2. Canines

Similar to the teeth of animal predators, your four canine teeth are the pointiest of the bunch. They are found on both sides of the incisors, and are ideal for tearing and ripping your food. 

3. Premolars

These smaller molars come in beside the canines. They are generally the first set of molars to develop permanently and are designed for chewing and grinding your food. 

4. Molars

As the teeth in the back of your mouth, your molars hold most of the chewing power. Your dentist may emphasize the importance of brushing in the back of your mouth, as molars can be tricky to keep clean. These large, flat teeth grind food and seperate it into smaller pieces. This helps your body easily digest meals. 

5. Third Molars

Can’t find your third molars? You might not have them. These teeth, commonly called wisdom teeth, don’t always develop. If they do come in, many people will need to have them removed. While they can help in chewing along with the other molars, they are not always necessary. 

 

By knowing the function of your teeth, you can better understand why it is critical to care for them. From incisors to molars, Dr. Robert N. Petrtyl, DDS in Cincinnati, OH, is here to keep all of your teeth healthy and working properly. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Petrtyl is the dentist you can trust with general and family dentistry services. His office is open six days a week, so you can make an appointment that fits your schedule. To learn more about his services, visit his website or call (513) 554-4657 today. 

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