We make replacements for all kinds of teeth at the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group, so it’s important for patients to know what exactly each tooth does. There are naturally thirty-two teeth in a normal adult’s mouth; some can be done without, but some can’t.
In the back of the mouth are three pairs of molars. These teeth are for grinding and chewing. The ones furthest back are called wisdom teeth, and they are often removed because there is not enough room for them to erupt fully. In front of the molars are two pairs of premolars, which are the same, but smaller.
There is one pair of canines in each jaw. These pointy teeth are used for piercing, but their even more important function is to provide the jaw arc with stability at the point of maximum curvature. The two pairs of front teeth are called incisors and are further distinguished by whether they are central or lateral. These are the teeth which are most important for forming speech and are the ones which usually receive the most cosmetic attention.While molars and premolars are often removed without being replaced, leaving a missing front tooth is bad for both the mouth's appearance and its function.
Frederick Shaw, DDS, operates the Shoal Creek Prosthodontic Group at 1500 W 38th Street, Suite 34, Austin, Texas, 78731. To schedule an appointment, call 512-451-7491 or visit FrederickShawDDS.com and fill out a contact form.