Names and Duties of Teeth
Teeth are one of the important parts of the human body and have a major role both aesthetically and functionally. Teeth, which are the key to a beautiful smile, are also of critical importance in shaping facial expression and increasing the individual’s self-confidence. In addition, teeth form the basis of the nutritional process, which is an indispensable part of daily life. Healthy teeth help chew food correctly, start digestion and get the nutrients the body needs in the best possible way. But teeth not only serve a physical function; It also affects the individual’s general health, quality of life and even social relationships.
General Structure and Types of Teeth
Teeth have a critical role in oral and body health. Beyond an aesthetic appearance, they fulfill many functions such as chewing, speaking and supporting the facial structure. Human teeth are divided into four main groups specialized for different functions: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. These groups work in perfect harmony within the mouth with their different shapes and functions.
Incisors
The incisors are located in the front of the mouth and there are eight in total, four in both the lower jaw and the upper jaw. These teeth, which have a thin and flat structure, are the first step in breaking food into small pieces.
Duties
- Cutting and biting food.
- To ensure a smooth smile and correct speaking ability.
- To prepare food for other groups of teeth to be chewed.
Incisor teeth, which are also important from an aesthetic point of view, positively affect the facial expression of the individual if they are properly aligned. At the same time, these teeth must be in a healthy and appropriate position in order for some speech sounds to be produced correctly.
Canine Teeth (Canines)
Canine teeth are located next to the incisors and have a pointed structure. There are four in total, one on each jaw. These teeth, which have the longest roots, help align the teeth correctly by providing stability in the mouth.
Duties
- Grasping and tearing food.
- To provide balance when closing the jaw.
- To support equal distribution of weight during chewing.
Dog teeth can remain intact for many years thanks to their strong structure. Additionally, due to their critical role in closing the mouth, if they are lost, they may cause misalignment of other teeth.
Small Molars (Premolars)
Premolars are located just behind the canine teeth. With their flat and wide surfaces, they enable food to be cut into smaller pieces. There are eight in total, four on each jaw.
Duties
- Crushing and shredding food.
- Acting as a bridge between incisors and molars.
- To help chew fibrous and hard foods.
Premolars are essential for effective chewing, especially of different foods. If they are deficient, the chewing process may be negatively affected, making digestion difficult.
Large Molars (Molars)
Molars are the largest and strongest teeth located in the back of the mouth. There are twelve in total, six on each jaw. Thanks to their large surface and solid structure, they undertake the most important part of the chewing process.
Duties
- Grinding food to make it ready to swallow.
- To absorb most of the pressure from the chewing process.
- Providing support to other dental groups.
Maintenance of molars is very important due to the complexity of their root structures. If oral health is neglected, it may pose a risk for cavities and infections. Especially the last molars, that is, wisdom teeth, may often fail to settle properly and may require surgical interventions.
Functions of Teeth
Teeth perform many critical functions in daily life.
- Chewing Food and Preparation for Digestion
One of the main functions of teeth is to prepare food for digestion by chewing. While the incisors cut food into small pieces, the molars grind these pieces thoroughly so that they can easily reach the stomach.
- Speech and Communication
Teeth are necessary for us to speak correctly. Incisor and canine teeth, in particular, enable words to be pronounced correctly. Without teeth, the formation of sounds becomes difficult and speech may be impaired.
- Aesthetics and Self-Confidence
Having healthy and straight teeth has a great impact on a person’s facial aesthetics and self-confidence. A beautiful smile positively affects a person’s social life.
- Supporting the Jaw and Facial Structure
Teeth play an important role in supporting the jaw bones and facial structure. Missing teeth can cause melting of the jaw bones and collapse of facial features over time.
How Can We Protect Dental Health?
In order for teeth to perform their functions properly, they must be healthy. Here are some suggestions to protect dental health:
- Regular Brushing: Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day.
- Flossing: Use dental floss to remove food debris from between the teeth.
- Regular Check-ups: Go to the dentist at least twice a year to have your teeth checked.
- Avoid Sugar and Acidic Foods: These types of foods can damage tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Teeth have an important role not only in chewing and nutrition, but also in speech, aesthetics and protection of facial structure. The incisors, canines, premolars, and molars each perform a different function. Maintaining the health of our teeth is critical for both our overall health and quality of life. Remember, it is possible to have a healthy mouth and teeth structure with regular care and check-ups.
