Different Types of Teeth and What Do They Do

• April 22, 2025
• Dr. Catherine-Anne Walsh

Teeth play a crucial role in not only chewing and digesting food but also in speech and maintaining facial structure. But did you know that we have different types of teeth, each with a specific shape and function?

In this guide, we’ll explore the types of teeth and their functions, answer common questions like “how many teeth does an adult have,” and explain how The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street Street can help in ensuring your teeth are in optimal condition for long-term health and function.

Tooth Anatomy: What Are Teeth Made Of?

Before diving into the types, let’s look at tooth anatomy. Each tooth has three main layers:

Enamel: The hard, outer surface that protects your teeth from decay and damage.

Dentin: The layer beneath the enamel that is less dense and more sensitive.

Pulp: The innermost part, containing nerves and blood vessels.

So, what are teeth made of? They’re primarily composed of enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp. Though strong and durable, teeth are not invincible, which is why regular check-ups at The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street are so important for preventative care.

How Many Teeth Does an Adult Have?

Most adults have 32 permanent teeth, which includes the four wisdom teeth that usually emerge in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth replace the 20 baby teeth that fall out during childhood. The adult set is made up of incisors, canines, premolars, and molars, each designed for a specific function in chewing, speaking, and maintaining facial structure.

Here’s how they break down:

• 8 Incisors (4 upper, 4 lower)
• 4 Canines (2 upper, 2 lower)
• 8 Premolars (4 upper, 4 lower)
• 12 Molars, which includes the 4 wisdom teeth (3 on each side of both jaws)

There are four different types of teeth and they all have different functions.

Types of Teeth and Their Functions

1. Incisors Teeth

• Location: Front and center of your mouth (4 upper, 4 lower)
• Function: Incisors function as cutting tools, slicing through food with their sharp, thin edges.
• Shape: Flat and blade-like

The incisors are the first teeth to come in during childhood and play an important role in speech and appearance. If you’re experiencing wear or damage to your incisors, our team at The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street offers aesthetic treatments like bonding or veneers to restore your smile.

2. Canines Teeth

• Location: Next to the incisors (2 upper, 2 lower)
  Function: Designed for tearing and ripping food
  Shape: Pointed and sharp

Also known as “cuspids,” canines teeth help guide your jaw into position when you chew. Healthy canines contribute to bite alignment and a strong jaw. If they’re misaligned or impacted, orthodontic solutions like Invisalign—offered at our clinic—may be recommended.

3. Premolars Teeth

• Location: Between canines and molars (4 upper, 4 lower)
• Function: Used for crushing and grinding food
• Shape: Two pointed cusps with broader surfaces

Also called bicuspids, premolars teeth are transitional teeth that help break food down before it reaches the molars. If you experience discomfort while chewing, it could be an issue with your premolars.

4. Molars Teeth

• Location: Back of the mouth (6 upper, 6 lower, including wisdom teeth)
• Function: The powerhouse teeth for grinding and chewing
• Shape: Large with multiple cusps

What are molars? Molars are the large, flat teeth at the back of your mouth that play a crucial role in grinding and chewing food thoroughly. The molar group includes the first, second, and third molars—with the third molars commonly known as wisdom teeth.

Different Type of Teeth Shapes

Each type of tooth has a shape suited to its function:

• Incisors – flat edges for cutting
• Canines – pointed tips for tearing
• Premolars – broad surface with two points
• Molars – large and flat for grinding

Understanding the different types of teeth shapes helps explain why damage to even one tooth can affect chewing and alignment. That’s why comprehensive oral assessments are key to long-term dental health.

It’s important to go for regular check-ups, scales and cleans to ensure that you’re taking care of your teeth.

Why It’s Important to Care for All Types of Teeth

Each type of tooth contributes to how effectively you chew and speak. Damage, decay, or misalignment in any tooth can disrupt the entire system.

Regular check-ups, scale and cleans, and early intervention for issues like cavities or teeth grinding are just some of the preventative services we offer at The Dentist at 70 Pitt Street.

How to contact us at our Sydney CBD clinic

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Email Us: info@thedentist.net.au

1/70 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
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FAQs

Are teeth bones?

Teeth are not bones. While both are hard and contain calcium, teeth are made of enamel, dentin, and pulp, and they do not regenerate like bone. Regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain their structure and function.

How many molars does an adult have?

Adults typically have 12 molars, including 4 wisdom teeth. These are located at the back of the mouth and are responsible for grinding and chewing food effectively.

What do normal teeth look like?

Healthy teeth are usually white to off-white in colour, have a smooth surface, and show no signs of decay or gum inflammation. Each type of tooth should have its expected shape, such as flat incisors or pointed canines.

What do incisors do?

incisors are the front teeth used for cutting and biting into food. Their flat, sharp edges make them perfect for slicing through foods like fruits and vegetables.

What are the front teeth called?

The front teeth are called incisors. Adults typically have eight incisors—four on the top and four on the bottom.

How many canines do humans have?

Humans have four canines—one on each side of the upper and lower jaws. These teeth help tear food and maintain proper bite alignment.

What are incisors used for?

Incisors are used for cutting food, especially at the beginning of a meal. They also help with speech and form the visible part of your smile.

General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.