|
|
Tooth Terminology
Palmer's Notation
Palmer's Notation is a widely used system to identify teeth. In Palmer's Notation, the oral cavity is divided into four quadrants -- the upper left quadrant, the upper right quadrant, the lower left quadrant, and the lower right quadrant. Each individual tooth in each quadrant is given a name. The name of the quadrant and the name of the tooth form an individual identification; for example, the central incisor on the upper right side of the mouth is called an “upper right central.”
Names of Teeth
- Central -- The two upper and two lower teeth in the very center of the mouth.
- Lateral -- The teeth adjacent to the centrals.
- Cuspid -- The pointy teeth behind the laterals; these teeth have one cuspal, or point. Cuspids are also called canines.
- First Bicuspid -- The teeth behind the cuspids. These teeth have two cuspals, or points.
- Second Bicuspid -- The teeth behind the first bicuspids. These teeth have two cuspals, or points.
- First Molar -- The teeth behind the second bicuspids. These teeth also have a level surface with four cuspals or points.
- Second Molar -- The teeth behind the first molars. These teeth also have a flat service with four cuspals.
- Third Molar -- The teeth behind the second molars. These teeth also have a level surface with four cuspals.
Other Names of Teeth
- Incisor -- Another name for the centrals and laterals.
- Canine -- Another name for the cuspids.
- 6-Year Molar -- Another name for the first molar.
- 12-Year Molar -- Another name for the second molar.
- Wisdom Teeth -- Another name for the third molar.
- Anterior Teeth -- The centrals, laterals and cuspids -- the teeth in the front of the mouth.
- Posterior Teeth -- The bicuspids and molars -- the teeth in the back of the mouth.
- Deciduous Teeth -- The primary, or “baby teeth” -- the first set of teeth to erupt.
- Secondary Teeth -- The permanent or second group of teeth to erupt.
|
|