Teeth

Teeth are accessory digestive organs that aid in physically breaking down food.

 The gums, or gingivae, of both the mandible and maxilla hold the teeth.

During development, humans typically go through two sets of teeth—primary and permanent.

The primary set, or deciduous teeth, begins to emerge around six months of age. They start with the lower central incisors, followed by a steady progression until all 20 milk teeth have come through by 24 months.

Over time, the roots of the primary teeth are absorbed to make way for the enlarging permanent teeth, which typically emerge by the age of 12 years.

The permanent dentition usually comprises 32 teeth, classified according to shape and function into incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

The eight incisors, with their chisel shape, are built for cutting food, while the four pointed canines are used for tearing and piercing.

The eight premolars and twelve molars, with their broad crowns and rounded tips, are designed for grinding and crushing.