Permanent teeth

Definition

Permanent teeth are the set of 32 adult teeth that replace the primary (baby) teeth and are meant to last a lifetime. They include incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each serving specific functions in the mouth related to cutting, tearing, and grinding food.

Related terms

Incisors:

The front most teeth in the mouth used for cutting or shearing food into manageable pieces.

Canines:

Pointed teeth located next to the incisors that help in tearing food.

Molars:

Large, flat teeth at the back of the mouth primarily used for grinding and crushing food into smaller pieces for easier swallowing