Mastication: Food can not be swallowed directly. So it must be grinded, chewed and shred. This process of grinding, chewing and shredding is called ’MASTICATION’.
Role of different sets of teeth in mastication:
1. In the oral cavity of human beings, 32 teeth and they are 4 different types to perform different functions.
2. They are a) Inscisors b) Canines c) Premolars d) Molars
a) Inscisors: These are eight in number and have chisel shape. They have sharp edges and are specialized for cutting and biting the food.
b) Canines: These are four in number and are with pointed edges- These are designed for piercing and tearing food.
c) Premolars: These are eight in number and are also called cheek teeth. These are designed for crushing and grinding food.
d) Molars: These are 12 in number. They are designed for crushing and grinding food.
