Have you ever wondered why we have so many different types of teeth? While we know our teeth are important for chewing, we rarely consider the other ways they help us on a daily basis. For example, our different kinds of teeth help support our lips, maintain the height of our mouths, and help guide the rest of the teeth into place when you close your mouth. That said, we wanted to spend some time highlighting the different types of teeth, and all that they do!
At Kraus Orthodontics, we’re proud to provide a variety of orthodontic services to those around Allen, Texas. With the knowledge of Dr. Kraus and his experienced team, we’re also proud to be able to provide all the education necessary to make your orthodontic treatment rewarding. If you’re interested in pursuing orthodontics with us, call our Allen, Texas office today! Otherwise, keep reading to learn more about the different types of teeth!
Different Types of Teeth
- Incisors: The incisors are the eight teeth at the front of your mouth (four top and four bottom). These teeth are relatively flat and thin, cutting into your food to begin the chewing process, as well as providing support for the lips.
- Canines: The canines, often called the “eye teeth”, sit just beyond the incisors, in the corners of the smile. These are pointed teeth that are helpful in tearing and shredding tough foods. Like the incisors, these teeth also help to support the lips, but they also help to guide all of the teeth into place as you chew and close your mouth. They have the longest roots of any teeth in the mouth!
- Premolars: The premolars rest just behind the canines on both the top and bottom of your mouth. Also known as the bicuspids, these teeth are slightly pointed like the canines but are also have a flattened biting surface like molars. These teeth are paramount in the chewing process, and they help to maintain the overall height of the mouth when your teeth are closed.
- Molars: We have 12 molars altogether. This count includes the wisdom teeth, which typically emerge in early adulthood. These teeth also help with the chewing process and with maintaining the height of your mouth. Interestingly the upper molars have 3 roots, while the lower molars have 2.
- Supernumerary Teeth: These are any teeth that form outside of the normal set of 32. The most common supernumerary teeth are incisors. But some people end up with extra wisdom teeth or molars as well.
- Neo-natal Teeth: Neo-natal teeth are fairly rare, but occasionally babies are born with a small set of teeth without roots. Rare meaning that it occurs in about one of every 3,000 births.
Kraus Orthodontics, Your Allen, TX Orthodontist!
If you’re seeking orthodontics around Allex, TX, look no further than Kraus Orthodontics! Call our Allen office today at 469-619-9959 to schedule a consultation. You can also contact us here!
