An adult human typically has 32 teeth. These teeth can be categorized into four types based on their location and function:
Incisors: There are eight incisors in total, four in the upper jaw (maxillary incisors) and four in the lower jaw (mandibular incisors). Incisors are located at the front of the mouth and are used for cutting and biting food.
Canines: Adults have four canines, two in the upper jaw (maxillary canines) and two in the lower jaw (mandibular canines). Canines are pointed teeth used for tearing and grasping food.
Premolars: There are eight premolars in total, four in the upper jaw (maxillary premolars) and four in the lower jaw (mandibular premolars). Premolars have flat surfaces with cusps and are used for grinding and crushing food.
Molars: Adults have 12 molars, six in the upper jaw (maxillary molars) and six in the lower jaw (mandibular molars). Molars are large, flat teeth with multiple cusps and are primarily responsible for grinding and crushing food.
In some cases, individuals may have fewer teeth due to dental issues, extractions, or congenital conditions. Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, not everyone develops wisdom teeth, and some people may need to have them removed due to space constraints or other dental problems. This is why the total number of teeth can vary from person to person.