Tooth terms

Central teeth

Located in center of mouth, these are the two lower and two upper teeth.

Laterals

These teeth are located adjacent to the central teeth.

Cuspids

These also are known as “canine” teeth. This is the pointy tooth behind the lateral teeth. The cuspid refers to the “point” on the tooth.

Bicuspids

These teeth have two points, or cuspids. They are located behind the cuspid teeth.

Molars

These teeth are located behind bicuspids and have a flat surface with four “cuspals,” or rounded points.

Incisors

This is another term for central or lateral teeth.

Canines

Another term for Cuspids.

Wisdom

This is the term used for the third molar tooth.

Anterior teeth

These teeth are located in the front part of your mouth. They are comprised of centrals, laterals and cuspids.

Anterior teeth

These teeth are located in the back of your mouth and are comprised of your bicuspids and molars.

Deciduous teeth

Better known as “baby teeth.” Like deciduous leaves that drop their leaves trees, these teeth eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth. They also are known as “primary teeth.”

Secondary teeth

These are the permanent teeth that you carry through adulthood.

Crown

The white part of your tooth that rises above the gum.

Dentin

This part of your tooth extends below the gumline and contains root canals as well as pulp chamber.

Enamal

This hard layer of protection covers your teeth.

Gums

Soft pink tissue surrounding the bottom of your teeth.

Pulp

Tissue inside the tooth that contains blood vessels and the tooth nerve.

Tempromandibular joint (TMJ)

The connection between upper and lower jaws.