How Many Teeth Do We Have? Numbers and Facts About Teeth
Teeth play a central role in chewing, speech, and overall well-being. In the first years of life we have baby teeth, which are later replaced by permanent teeth. These should last a lifetime — consistent oral care and regular dental check-ups are crucial. Dental professionals can help keep teeth and gums healthy in the long term.
But how many teeth does a person actually have? And what changes over a lifetime? Below you'll find all the important numbers, facts, and tips about dental health.
🦷 All About Teeth — Data and Facts
Good oral hygiene starts in childhood. Children should be introduced early to regular toothbrushing and cleaning between the teeth to prevent cavities and tooth loss. The biggest challenge is often motivation — daily brushing with enthusiasm isn't always easy for kids.
An effective way to motivate children is to share interesting facts about teeth and oral health. Especially between ages 6 and 12 — the transition from baby to permanent teeth — long-term care routines can be established.
🧑⚕️ Teeth Across Life Stages
When do babies get their first tooth?
Some babies are born with a tooth — but that's rare. Most first teeth erupt between the 4th and 12th month of life, on average at 6 months. The lower incisors usually appear first.
How many teeth do children have?
Children typically have 20 baby teeth — 10 in the upper jaw and 10 in the lower jaw. From about age 5 or 6 they begin to fall out to make room for permanent teeth. Baby teeth act as placeholders for the permanent dentition and should be carefully cared for.
How many teeth do adults have?
Adults usually have between 28 and 32 teeth, i.e., 14–16 in the upper and 14–16 in the lower jaw. The dentition consists of:
- 8 incisors
- 4 canines
- 8 premolars
- 8–12 molars (including wisdom teeth)
Permanent teeth are meant to last a lifetime — good dental care is therefore indispensable.
🦷 What are teeth made of?
Teeth consist of three layers:
- Enamel — the hardest substance in the human body, made of hydroxyapatite.
- Dentin — a living layer with dense collagen and high mineral content.
- Pulp (tooth nerve) — the sensitive inner part with nerve fibers, blood vessels, and connective tissue.
💪 Are teeth the strongest structure in the body?
Yes — enamel is harder than bone. With a mineral content of around 96%, it withstands compressive forces of about 100 kg.
📝 9 surprising facts about teeth
- The most valuable tooth belonged to Sir Isaac Newton — today's value: $35,700.
- Three out of four Britons have lost at least one tooth.
- Those who drink three or more sugary drinks daily have over 60% higher cavity risk.
- Enamel cannot regenerate itself.
- Blue whales have no teeth.
- The ancient Greeks used pumice, alabaster, talc, and ground shells as early toothpaste.
- Giraffes have teeth only in the lower jaw.
- 92% of Americans show signs of caries; in England it's 28%.
- Dogs have 42, cats 30 teeth.
🌿 Care at Any Age — with artgerecht Floral
As we age, teeth go through different developmental phases — from the first baby tooth to older adulthood. In every phase, consistent care, a balanced diet, and regular dental check-ups are crucial.
artgerecht Floral supports daily oral care naturally. With functional ingredients like lactoferrin, it helps keep the oral microbiome in balance and promotes holistic oral health. Combined with thorough brushing, interdental cleaning, and professional prophylaxis, your smile stays healthy and bright for the long term.
📚 References
- German Society of Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Medicine (DGZMK). Teeth and Tooth Development
- American Dental Association (ADA). Tooth Anatomy & Development
- European Federation of Periodontology (EFP). Oral Health and Preventive Care
- Sunstar GUM. How many teeth do we have?
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