Anthro 170: Human Dental Formula

Diphiodonty

first set of teeth lost and replaced by one set of permanent teeth

Incisors

for grasping and nipping

Molars

for grinding, slicing, and crushing food

Canines

for piercing, holding, and cracking open food

Premolars

for pulping and crushing food

Polyphiodonty

pattern of tooth replacement when teeth are lost or damaged and continue to be replaced

C

1

I

2

P

2

How many dediduous teeth do humans have?

20

M

3

How many teeth do humans have?

32