Tooth Anatomy: Understanding the Surfaces of Human Teeth

What are the main surfaces of human teeth and how many permanent teeth do adult humans have? Each tooth has five main surfaces and is specialized for specific functions in chewing. There are 32 permanent teeth in adult humans, including incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

Main Surfaces of Human Teeth

Each tooth in a human's mouth has five main surfaces:

  • Facial (or Buccal) Surface: This surface faces the cheeks.
  • Lingual Surface: Next to the tongue.
  • Occlusal Surface: The flat biting surface.
  • Mesial Surface: The edge of the tooth closest to the center of the mouth.
  • Distal Surface: The edge of the tooth farthest from the center of the mouth.

Functions of Different Types of Teeth

With the different types of teeth including incisors, canines (or cuspids), premolars (or bicuspids), and molars, each tooth is specialized for various functions in the process of mastication, or chewing.

Number of Permanent Teeth in Adult Humans

Adult human dentition comprises 32 permanent teeth, including the third molars commonly known as wisdom teeth. Sometimes, wisdom teeth may be impacted and require orthodontic surgery.

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