The teeth primarily used for chewing are called premolars and molars.
These teeth, located at the back of the mouth, are specifically designed to grind and crush food, breaking it down into smaller particles for easier swallowing and digestion. They work in conjunction with saliva to form a bolus, which is then swallowed.
Here's a further breakdown:
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Premolars: These teeth are located between the canines and molars. Adults typically have eight premolars, four on each jaw. They have a flatter surface than canines, suitable for crushing food.
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Molars: These are the largest and strongest teeth, located at the very back of the mouth. Adults typically have twelve molars, including the wisdom teeth (third molars). Molars have a large, flat surface with ridges and cusps ideal for grinding food.
In summary, while other teeth assist in the process, premolars and molars are the main teeth responsible for chewing.
