Tooth Terminology

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."

Central -- The two upper and two lower teeth in the very center of the mouth.

Laterals -- 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.

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.

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