tandtyper

Tandtyper, or tooth types, are the principal categories of teeth in vertebrate dentitions. In humans, the four basic tandtyper are incisors, canines, premolars, and molars. These types appear in two dentitions: the primary (deciduous) dentition and the permanent dentition.

The primary dentition contains 20 teeth, organized per quadrant as two incisors, one canine, and two molars. The permanent dentition typically has 32 teeth, with per quadrant consisting of two incisors, one canine, two premolars, and three molars. Each type has a distinctive shape and function. Incisors are front teeth with sharp edges for cutting. Canines are pointed teeth at the corners of the mouth, adapted for tearing. Premolars, located behind the canines, have one or two cusps and assist in tearing and grinding. Molars are larger teeth at the back of the mouth with broad chewing surfaces for grinding food, with the third molars (wisdom teeth) often varying in size, position, or presence.

Eruption and replacement follow characteristic patterns but vary among individuals. Deciduous teeth typically emerge in early childhood and are eventually shed to make way for the permanent set. The concept of tandtyper helps describe dental anatomy, function, and development, and is used in both clinical dentistry and anatomical study.