anteriorals

Anteriorals is a term sometimes encountered in dental writing as shorthand for the anterior teeth, the front group of teeth in each jaw. In formal terminology, however, it is more common to use “anterior teeth” or “anterior dentition.” The word anterioral is not widely standardized, and the plural form anteriorals may appear in some notes or regional texts rather than in primary literature.

Anatomy and composition: In the permanent dentition, the anterior segment comprises six teeth per arch: the central and lateral incisors, plus the canines. Across both jaws, this yields twelve anterior teeth. Incisors are typically blade-shaped with a sharp incisal edge for cutting, while canines have a longer root and a pointed cusp for tearing and guiding jaw movement. The central incisors are usually larger and more prominent than the lateral incisors, and canines are often the strongest teeth in the group.

Function and clinical relevance: The anterior teeth play key roles in cutting food, aesthetics, and speech. They are common sites of trauma due to their exposed position, making preventive measures like mouthguards important in sports. Restorative options for damaged anterior teeth include bonding, veneers, and crowns, chosen to preserve or restore appearance and function. Orthodontic treatment frequently targets anterior alignment to improve bite, profile, and phonetics.

Development and terminology: Anterior teeth are among the first to erupt and develop in both primary and permanent dentitions. The use of anteriorals as a plural is not standard outside certain regional or informal contexts; clinicians typically refer to the anterior teeth or anterior dentition.