Human Physiology

Lesson 18 : Dentition

Dentition Classification

Based on shape and their location teeth are classified into four groups:

1. Incisors: have a chisel shaped crown with single root and used for biting and cutting of food.
2. Canines or Cuspids: have a pointed crown with a long single root. They are used for tearing the food.
3. Premolars or bicuspids: have a broader crown with one or two roots and used for grinding of food.
4. Molars or Multicuspids: have much broader crown surface with two or three roots. These are used for grinding and crushing the food.