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Why Do We Have Premolars?

Posted on 3/10/2020 by Janice K. Pliszczak, DDS

People usually 8 premolars, four on each side of the mouth. On each side, two are on the upper jaw with the other two sitting on the lower jaw. The first set of premolars usually comes out when one reaches the age of 10. What purpose does this type of teeth serve in your mouth?

The Importance Of Premolars

They are named first and the second premolar respectively. The very first premolar has two tips whereas the second premolar has two smaller cusps that are not equal in size. They are permanent teeth and are also known as bicuspids. Premolars' main role is to pass food back to the molars so that it can be properly chewed and crushed into smaller particles for easy swallowing.

While this function can be easily ignored, swallowing improperly chewed food reduces the stress on the digestive system and helps with a better metabolism. Proper chewing increases the saliva content in the food that is passed on to the digestive system, thereby making work easier. The food can easily move through the digestive system when it is properly broken down.

When you don't chew your food properly, you could experience bloating, indigestion, and constipation. These are caused by bacterial overgrowth from foods that are not completely broken down. Another importance of the premolars is that they contribute to the aesthetics of a smile. Basically, the make your smile more beautiful by helping in the perfect alignment of the jawline when you smile.

Since the premolars and the molars are placed at the middle of the mouth, it is often easy to ignore them when it comes to oral health care until a problem arises. The purpose they serve means that you should not ignore them. You should proactively take good care of your premolars. Visit our clinic today to have your premolars checked up.

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"You are put at ease the minute you walk into their new office on Broad Rd. Beautiful and calming surroundings. The staff couldn't be more helpful and are extremely friendly. Dr. Pliszczak is exactly what you want in a Dentist. Always concerned with your comfort, I never feel rushed, and I enjoy here friendly manner. And because of all of their meticulously thorough work, My teeth are as healthy as can be!!! Thank you Dr. Pliszczak, Jade and Nancy" ~Roamy F.