Tänderna

Tänderna (the teeth) are the set of hard mineralized structures in the mouth that function as the primary organs of mastication in humans and many other animals. They also contribute to speech and facial aesthetics. In humans, the adult mouth typically contains 32 permanent teeth, while children have 20 deciduous teeth that are gradually replaced.

Structure: Each tooth consists of a crown covered by enamel, an inner dentin core, and one or more roots anchored in the jawbone by cementum and the periodontal ligament. The pulp chamber houses nerves and blood vessels. Enamel and dentin provide hardness and resilience, while cementum and the periodontal ligament help secure the tooth within the alveolar bone.

Dentition: The human adult dentition includes incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. In each dental quadrant, permanent teeth are arranged as 2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, and 3 molars (2-1-2-3), for a total of 32. The deciduous set has 2-1-0-2 per quadrant, totaling 20.

Development and eruption: Tooth development begins in utero and continues after birth. Deciduous teeth typically emerge between about six months and two years of age. Permanent teeth begin to erupt around age six and may continue into adolescence; wisdom teeth, if present, often erupt in the late teens or early adulthood.

Health and care: Dental caries and periodontal disease are common conditions affecting tänderna. Prevention emphasizes daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, regular flossing, limiting sugary foods, sealants for children, and routine dental checkups. Advances in dentistry also address restorative treatments, endodontics, and orthodontics as needed.