Anterior teeth

Anterior teeth refer to the six front teeth in each dental arch the central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines (cuspids) for a total of 12 anterior teeth (6 maxillary and 6 mandibular).

Classification:

• Central incisors (teeth #8, #9 maxillary; #24, #25 mandibular in universal numbering) the two frontmost teeth in each arch

• Lateral incisors (teeth #7, #10 maxillary; #23, #26 mandibular) immediately adjacent to the central incisors

• Canines/Cuspids (teeth #6, #11 maxillary; #22, #27 mandibular) the pointed teeth at the corners of the dental arch

Key characteristics:

• Function: Primarily used for cutting, tearing, and shearing food, as well as playing a critical role in speech and aesthetics

• Morphology: Singlerooted teeth with thinner, bladelike incisal edges (incisors) or a single pointed cusp (canines), in contrast to the broader, multicusped posterior teeth (premolars and molars)

• Esthetics: The anterior teeth are the most visible during speech and smiling, making them a primary focus in cosmetic and restorative dentistry