Understanding Teeth Numbers
Every tooth in the mouth is numbered based on the type and position. Learning teeth numbers will help you understand each tooth’s function in the mouth. There are two sets of teeth number charts, baby teeth and adult teeth. The biggest difference is baby teeth charts use letters and adult teeth charts use numbers.
Table of Contents
Primary Teeth Numbers
Primary teeth, or baby teeth, start to erupt around age 6 months. A total of 20 baby teeth will grow into the mouth. Every tooth has a purpose and works together to achieve proper nutrition and aid in speech development. Primary teeth are usually whiter than permanent teeth. They are also more fragile than adult teeth because their enamel is thinner.
Primary Teeth Numbers Chart
Primary teeth are labeled with letters, A through T. Starting in the upper right to upper left and then proceeding to the lower left and ending on the lower right. Baby teeth play an important role for the adult teeth. Baby teeth will save the space for the adult teeth until they’re developed enough to erupt.
Permanent Teeth Numbers
Adult teeth buds start developing in the bone at around 4 months in utero during pregnancy. There are 32 permanent teeth that work together to keep your mouth functioning for the rest of your life. To learn more about teeth development and teeth erupting, check out our article Preparing For Teeth Erupting.
Permanent Teeth Numbers Chart
The permanent teeth chart uses numbers to identify each tooth and its position in the mouth. Starting in the upper right to the upper left and then proceeding to the lower left and ending on the lower right. Exactly like the baby teeth, starting at 1 and ending at 32.
Some people are born without all their teeth. Around 20% of people are congenitally missing teeth. This is usually diagnosed during routine dental cleaning and x-rays so there is time to make a plan if needed. To learn more, check out our article Using Braces With Missing Teeth.
How To Keep Your Teeth Strong
Every primary and permanent tooth has a purpose in the mouth. The teeth fit together like puzzle pieces in order to support the body. People are living longer but the risk of losing a tooth prematurely increases with age. The best ways to keep your smile strong and healthy are:
- Brushing: Brush two times a day for two minutes. Using an electric toothbrush can help clean the teeth better and keep your smile bright.
- Flossing: Flossing is the only way you can clean in between the teeth. It’s important to floss every night to remove food, plaque, and bacteria from the teeth and gums.
- Nutrition: Diet plays a huge role in your healthy smile. Sugar increases your risk for cavities and acids can lead to erosion and weakened enamel. Alcohol and caffeine beverages will dry out the mouth. All these factors increase the activity of harmful bacteria leading to poor oral hygiene.
- For a more detailed nutritional guide, check out Dental Nutrition Guide.
- Routine Dental Visits: It is important to get a professional dental cleaning at least every 6 months. Your dental hygienist will ensure all the food, plaque, calculus, and bacteria are removed from the hard-to-reach places and keep your smile strong.
Take Home Smile Store
Visit our Take Home Smile store for educational brochures and other fun printables to help with oral hygiene. All products can be customized to fit your dental needs.
