Human Teeth – Detailed

Introduction

Teeth are the most abrasive elements in the human body. The purpose of human teeth is to effectively break down food by breaking and mashing it to swallow and digest it. In addition to being vital for chewing, it also plays a pivotal role in speaking. Like most other mammals, humans have two sets of teeth. 

The primary set, which consists of 20 teeth, is also known as the baby or milk teeth. The primary types of teeth in a human begin to emerge at six months, which can be difficult for a newborn. A single or more than one tooth is present in some newborns at birth.

Parts of Teeth

1. Enamel – is the tooth’s most vital, white outer layer, made from Calcium phosphate, a rock-hard mineral. It stems from the oral ectoderm, combined with dental pulp, dentin and cementum. Enamel’s composition is 96% minerals, with organic substances and water making up the rest. An enamel’s natural hue ranges from a clear yellow to bluish-white. 
2. Dentin – is a layer below the enamel, a thick tissue with tiny tubes. It is secreted by the odontoblasts in the pulp chamber. Dentin is 70% inorganic, 20% organic and 10% water. Dentin decays faster than enamel and is susceptible to pain and sensitivity if not treated adequately.
3. Dental Pulp – is a live interior architecture of teeth made up of soft connective tissue. Blood vessels and nerves penetrate the tooth through a hole at the root’s tip, giving it the name ‘nerve.’
4. Cementum – a connective tissue layer that connects the roots of the teeth to the gums and jawbone. It is a bone-like structure covering a tooth’s root and consists of 45 per cent inorganic compounds, 33 percent organic components, and 22 percent water. Cementum, which is excreted by cementoblasts and is thickest at the tooth’s root tip, has a yellowish colour and is softer than enamel and dentin.

Types of Teeth in a Human & its Functions

Typically there are 32 total teeth in humans, except the wisdom teeth usually appear after 13. Human teeth are made up of different tissues that vary in hardness and density. Types of teeth in a human include incisors, canines, premolars and molars, each with its specialized function. While the incisors slice food, the canines rip it and the molars and premolars crush it. The roots of teeth, which are fixed in the maxilla (upper jaw) or mandible (lower jaw)  These are surrounded by gums. 

There are four types of teeth in a human, with each class built for a particular purpose for eating and chewing.

• 8 Incisors
• 4 Canines
• 8 Premolars
• 12 Molars (also containing 4 wisdom teeth)

Incisors and Their Function

Generally, adults have eight incisors (four uppers, four lowers). Incisors are the front-most teeth and perform the job of cutting food. In children, these teeth appear first.

Canines and Their Function

When talking about types of teeth in humans, canines are slightly pointed ones. They are located on each side of the incisors. They have acquired the name because they resemble a dog’s fangs (canine). Sometimes they are called cuspids or “eye teeth” as they are placed directly below the eye sockets.

Premolars and Their Functions

Between the canines and the molars is where the premolars are located. Two pointed cusps are present on the surface of premolars to help in biting. Hence, they also get the name bicuspids. The premolars are also referred to as the transitional teeth, guiding food chunks from canines to molars and repeating for chewing.

Molars and Their Function

Molars are situated at the back of the mouth and help grind the food. Typically adults have twelve molars; 4 of the molars are wisdom teeth. The Upper and lower jaw on each side has three molars. The Canine is the giant tooth in the human mouth and is designed to handle the force used for chewing, grinding and clenching.

Oral Hygiene

When it comes to keeping your teeth healthy, brushing with fluoride toothpaste is your best chance. Brush your teeth at least twice a day  .Brushing your teeth in little circles is the perfect way to do it. Keep brushing until you’ve covered every surface of every tooth. Brush up and down instead of going side to side. 

Cleaning between your teeth with dental floss at least once a day is also highly recommended. Food and plaque can cause cavities or gum disease and become lodged between your teeth. Flossing can help remove these. Brushing your tongue can also aid in freshening your breath! It’s also vital to see your dentist and dental hygienist now and then. As experts on your teeth, they can check for any adverse dental conditions, clean and polish your teeth

• Tooth decay is a broader term for tooth-rotting and also includes cavities
• Cavities are caused by bacteria,Usually found in molars and premolars
• Periodontitis is an inflammation of the periodontal ligament, cementum and jawbone owing to poor dental hygiene
• Plaque is a whitish, sticky film caused by bacteria and chemicals; after eating sweets, it forms quickly on teeth but can be easily removed with a toothbrush
• Gingivitis is a gum inflammation that damages the surface, the area around and between the teeth caps, caused by plaque and tartar accumulation
• Tartar is created if plaque isn’t removed. In combination with minerals, it becomes harder and then requires professional cleaning
• Tooth sensitivity occurs when your teeth become sensitive to hot or cold, which indicates that the dentin is exposed

Dental Treatments

In addition to the methods mentioned for oral hygiene, you can undertake some more treatments periodically to ensure good dental health.

• Rinse your teeth with an antiseptic mouthwash every day to eliminate microorganisms that cause gum disease and bad breath( recommended by dental prodessional) 
• Get your teeth cleaned by a dental professional to avoid tooth and gum disease every six months
• A cavity can be prevented by drilling out the unhealthy area and filling the space with a mineral filling
• When the deep pulp of the teeth is damaged, a root canal is performed. A tooth’s deep pulp is then drilled, cleaned, and filled
• It may be removed if a tooth is too damaged to be fixed with a filling or a root canal. Wisdom teeth are often pulled to prevent the other teeth from shifting
• Braces are manufactured devices or systems that hold teeth in a fixed position for a long time. Braces can eventually assist in realigning crooked teeth
• A plastic mouth guard can protect your teeth from grinding and injuries during sports
• Dental sealants are a plastic coating put to the teeth to prevent bacteria from hiding in cracks
• Teeth can be bleached to a brighter white using over-the-counter and professional chemical procedures. The most prevalent side effect is tooth sensitivity

Conclusion

That was all about human teeth. This explanation will help you understand the basics of natural teeth in humans; it covers the multiple types of teeth in a human and talks about their functions and the importance of oral hygiene.