How many teeth do normal people have in total?

Oct 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
When an individual has a complete permanent dentition, with all teeth normally developed and fully erupted, it specifically includes: 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 12 molars (including 4 wisdom teeth). This condition is commonly seen in adults without congenital absence or tooth extractions, resulting in a stable total of 32 teeth.

The normal number of teeth in healthy adults ranges from 28 to 32, with this variation primarily determined by the eruption status of the third molars (also known as wisdom teeth).

Human tooth development follows a clear stage-based pattern. During the primary dentition stage (typically from around 6 months after birth to about 6 years of age), children develop 20 primary teeth, which play essential roles in chewing food and promoting proper development of the jaw and face. As growth progresses, around age 6 marks the beginning of the permanent tooth replacement phase. By approximately age 12, all 20 primary teeth are replaced by permanent teeth, resulting in a stable count of 28 permanent teeth.

Between the ages of 17 and 26, some individuals may develop 1 to 4 wisdom teeth at the back of the mouth. However, due to individual differences in jawbone development space and genetic factors, others may never develop wisdom teeth. Both scenarios are considered normal physiological variations and do not require special intervention.

To maintain good oral health, it is important to brush teeth twice daily (morning and night) using fluoride toothpaste for at least three minutes each time, clean between teeth with dental floss after meals, and schedule a dental check-up and professional cleaning at a hospital dental clinic every six months to one year, helping prevent oral diseases and ensure optimal dental function.