How many teeth does a human have in total?
Jul 13, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Dong
Introduction
1. Deciduous (primary) teeth: There are typically around 20 deciduous teeth, which begin to erupt between approximately 6 months and 2 years of age. These 20 teeth include deciduous incisors, deciduous canines, and deciduous molars.
2. Permanent teeth: Permanent teeth start to erupt around age 6, coinciding with the shedding of deciduous teeth. The process of eruption generally continues until ages 13–14, by which time the permanent dentition is fully established. The permanent dentition usually consists of 28–32 teeth.
Teeth are vital organs for chewing in the human body, and the number of teeth varies among individuals—typically ranging from 28 to 32. Primary (deciduous) teeth begin erupting between 6 and 12 months of age, and the process of tooth replacement (shedding primary teeth and gaining permanent teeth) starts around age four. During the primary dentition stage, children usually have approximately 20 teeth; during the permanent dentition stage, the number increases to between 28 and 32 teeth. The variation in count arises because some individuals possess premolars and third molars (wisdom teeth). So, how many teeth does a human have in total? Below, we address this question.
How Many Teeth Does a Human Have in Total?
1. Primary (Deciduous) Teeth
Children typically have about 20 primary teeth, which gradually erupt between approximately 6 months and 2 years after birth. These 20 teeth consist of primary incisors, primary canines, and primary molars. Specifically, the upper arch includes two central incisors, two lateral incisors, two canines, and four molars; the lower arch likewise comprises two central incisors, two lateral incisors, two canines, and four molars—completing the primary dentition.
2. Permanent Teeth
Permanent teeth begin erupting around age six, as primary teeth exfoliate. By ages 13–14, the full permanent dentition is generally established. Adults normally have 28–32 permanent teeth. In the upper arch, these include two central incisors, two lateral incisors, two canines, four premolars, four molars, and two third molars (wisdom teeth). In the lower arch, there are four incisors (two central + two lateral), two canines, four premolars, four molars, and two third molars. Thus, most healthy adults possess 28–32 teeth, with 32 being the typical count; notably, the four third molars usually emerge between ages 18 and 30.
Additional Information: How Is Tooth Mobility Treated?
1. Root Canal Therapy
If tooth mobility results from periapical inflammation, addressing the underlying inflammation is essential. A dentist may perform root canal therapy or other appropriate interventions; as the periapical inflammation subsides, tooth mobility often improves. Concurrently, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to help resolve the inflammation and alleviate mobility.
2. Occlusal Adjustment
Occlusal trauma—a misalignment or excessive force during biting—can also cause tooth mobility, though multi-rooted teeth may show less obvious loosening. A qualified dentist should diagnose occlusal trauma and perform targeted occlusal adjustment. Additionally, maintaining diligent daily oral hygiene is crucial to prevent oral diseases.
3. Tooth Extraction
When tooth mobility is severe, the tooth may no longer be salvageable. In such cases, dentists typically recommend extraction followed by prosthetic replacement (e.g., dentures or implants). Moreover, in advanced periodontal disease, infection may spread to adjacent teeth; thus, extracting non-salvageable teeth may constitute an effective therapeutic strategy.
The above outlines the total number of teeth in humans. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
