Page 58 - ACTIVE SCIENCE 4 TOC

Gum

Molars
Incisors Canines Premolars Molars

Premolars
Canine
Incisors
Permanent Teeth
• Incisors : Incisors help in cutting and biting the food. The front four teeth
in both the jaws are incisors, i.e., four in upper jaw and four in lower jaw.

• Canines : Canines help in holding and tearing the food. They are on the
either side of incisors. There a are of total four canines – two in the upper

jaw and two in the lower jaw. Carnivores tear flesh easily due to the presence
of strong and sharp canines.
• Premolars : Premolars help in crushing and grinding the food. These are

placed next to the canines. There are four premolars in each jaw. These
teeth are usually broader than the other teeth.

• Molars : Molars are used for chewing and grinding the hard food items.
These are placed at the end of the mouth. There are 12 molars – six in each
jaw. They are bigger and broader. These teeth grow at different stages.

Care Of Teeth
Tiny particles of food that remain stuck in the teeth while eating, can cause the
growth of bacteria. If these germs are not removed, they will create a sticky coating
called plaque on the enamel layer. The bacteria further attack the dentine and
lastly the pulp.This way the germs reach deep into nerve area of tooth leading to

severe toothache.

If we take care of our teeth, we can save them from decaying. There are a few ways
by which we can keep our teeth healthy and clean.

1. Brush your teeth twice a day, i.e., in the morning
as well as at night before going to bed. Upward
and downward movement of the toothbrush in a
circular motion is the proper way for brushing.

2. Rinse your teeth after every meal. Gargle would
be an added safety measure.

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