Different Types of Teeth

As humans, we are made up of many different parts and the same goes for are our teeth. If we didn’t have teeth, we wouldn’t be able to chew the food that nourishes our body and allows us to function on a daily basis. If you’ve ever wondered why all of your teeth are different shapes and sizes, our staff at Bensalem Family Dentistry would like to explain why this is.

According to the American Dental Association, each tooth is made up of several parts: pulp, cementum, dentin, and enamel. The types of teeth and their functions are as follows:

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have questions about your teeth, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.bensalemfamilydentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Eisenbrock, DDS at Bensalem Family Dentistry in Bensalem, PA, call us at 215-638-9952.