What is the structure and function of teeth?

Teeth are hard, mineral-rich structures which are used to chew food. They are not made of bone like the rest of the skeleton, but have their own unique structure to enable them to break down food. Tooth enamel is the most mineralized tissue in the body, consisting mainly of the rock-hard mineral hydroxyapatite.

What is the function of molar teeth?

Molars. Molars are the biggest of all the teeth. They have a large, flat surface with ridges that allow them to chew food and grind it up. Adults have 12 permanent molars — six on the bottom and top jaw, and children have eight primary molars.

What is the function of canines?

The typical human mouth has 4 canine teeth, on either side of the upper and lower incisors. Canines are effectively the corners of the mouth and perform the function of ripping and tearing food. Canines have the longest root of any tooth and come to a single, pointy cusp.

What is the function of the crown of a tooth?

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped “caps” that can be placed over your tooth. Think of it like a snug hat for your tooth. The crown restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength and appearance. The dental crown is cemented into place on your tooth and it covers the visible portion of the tooth.

What are the function of molars and premolars?

They are broadly classified as incisors, canines, premolars and molars. Incisors and canines help in cutting and tearing food into smaller bits. Once the food is broken down, it is then chewed before the food before it is swallowed. Premolars and molars play a vital role in the process of grinding and chewing.

What is the main function of incisors?

In fact, incisors are usually the first baby teeth that emerge through the gums and the first to fall out. Incisors have a sharp edge designed to cut food. Without incisors, it would be difficult to bite into and enjoy many tooth-healthy foods like carrots, apples, and sandwiches!

What is the function of molar?

What Is the Function of a Molar? Similar to bicuspids, molars grind down food into tiny particles that are easier to swallow. Molars are well-anchored into the jawbone to ensure they can handle the force of constantly chewing soft and hard items.

What is the function of root in teeth?

The root is the unseen portion that supports and fastens the tooth in the jawbone.

What is the main function of premolars?

Premolars Premolars, or bicuspids, are used for chewing and grinding food. Adults have four premolars on each side of their mouths — two on the upper and two on the lower jaw. There are no primary premolars; the first premolars appear around age 10, with the second premolars arriving about a year later.