Understanding how many teeth humans have is more than a simple anatomy question — “How Many Teeth Do Humans Have?” is actually essential for maintaining good oral health throughout your life. From childhood to adulthood, the number, type, and function of your teeth change significantly. At DRGO Smile Dental Clinic, we believe that informed patients make better decisions about their dental health. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain how many teeth humans have, what each type of tooth does, and why these numbers can vary from person to person.
How Many Teeth Do Children Have?
Children typically have 20 primary teeth, also known as baby teeth or deciduous teeth. These teeth begin erupting around six months of age and usually complete by age three.
The 20 baby teeth include:
- 8 incisors (4 upper, 4 lower)
- 4 canines
- 8 molars
Primary teeth play a crucial role in speech, chewing, facial structure, and holding space for the permanent teeth that will replace them. Although these teeth eventually fall out, caring for them is essential to prevent decay, pain, and future orthodontic issues.
How Many Teeth Do Humans Have?
Most adults have 32 permanent teeth, including the wisdom teeth. These teeth begin to appear around age six and continue erupting into early adulthood.
The full set of adult teeth includes:
- 8 incisors
- 4 canines
- 8 premolars
- 12 molars (including 4 wisdom teeth)
However, not everyone has 32 teeth. Some people naturally lack one or more teeth, while others have their wisdom teeth removed. Therefore, many adults have 28 teeth instead of 32.
Breaking Down the Types of Teeth
Each type of tooth plays a distinct role in chewing and speech. Understanding these differences helps explain why having a full, healthy set of teeth is important.
1. Incisors — Cutting and Biting
These are the sharp, flat teeth at the front of your mouth. Humans have eight incisors that help bite into food and articulate certain sounds.
2. Canines — Tearing Food
Located next to the incisors, the four canine teeth are pointed and strong. They help tear food and guide your bite into proper alignment.
3. Premolars — Crushing Food
Premolars appear only in the permanent set. Humans have eight premolars in total, and they are used for crushing and grinding food.
4. Molars — Grinding and Chewing
Molars are the largest teeth. Adults have 12 molars, including the four wisdom teeth. They grind food thoroughly during chewing.
Do Wisdom Teeth Count?
Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, are the last teeth to appear, often between ages 17 and 25. While they technically bring the total number of adult teeth to 32, many people do not have them or have them removed.
Reasons for wisdom tooth extraction include:
- Not enough space in the mouth
- Pain or infection
- Misalignment
- Impacted teeth
- Risk of damaging neighboring teeth
At DRGO Smile, our dentists evaluate your mouth with X-rays to determine whether your wisdom teeth need to be removed or can safely remain.
Why Do Some People Have More or Fewer Teeth?
Not everyone follows the textbook numbers. Variations are common:
1. Hypodontia (Missing Teeth)
Some individuals are born without certain teeth, especially premolars or lateral incisors.
2. Hyperdontia (Extra Teeth)
This rare condition involves having more teeth than normal, often requiring orthodontic correction.
3. Early Loss of Teeth
Decay, gum disease, or trauma can cause tooth loss, reducing the total number of teeth in adulthood.
4. Wisdom Tooth Removal
As mentioned, removing wisdom teeth lowers the total from 32 to 28.
The Importance of Maintaining All Your Teeth
Every tooth in your mouth contributes to proper chewing, smiling, and long-term oral health. When a tooth is missing, it can cause:
- Shifting and misalignment
- Difficulty chewing
- Increased risk of gum disease
- Changes in facial appearance
- Bone loss in the jaw
At DRGO Smile, we offer solutions such as implants, crowns, and bridges to restore full function and confidence.
How to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Regardless of how many teeth you have, keeping them healthy is key. Follow these essential oral care habits:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Limit sugary foods and drinks
- Visit your dentist every six months
- Seek treatment at the first sign of pain or sensitivity
Regular check-ups at DRGO Smile Dental Clinic ensure that every tooth — whether baby, adult, or wisdom — receives the best possible care.
Conclusion
So, how many teeth do humans have?
- Children: 20 teeth
- Adults: 28–32 teeth, depending on wisdom teeth
Your teeth play an essential role in your health, appearance, and overall well-being. Whether you have concerns about tooth eruption, missing teeth, or wisdom teeth, the expert dental team at DRGO Smile Dental Clinic is here to provide personalized, professional care.
If you have any questions or would like to book a dental consultation, our team is always ready to assist you.