Canines (overview)

The canines (Latin: dentes canini) are also known as the eye teeth or cuspids. In total, the oral cavity houses four canine teeth. Every jaw (upper and lower) has two canines, and every canine is located in one quadrant between the lateral incisor and first premolar. Overall, the maxillae have two canine teeth, and two more are located in the mandible

In every row between both canine teeth are located all incisors. The mandibular canines are a half-tooth closer to the midline of the jaw compared to the maxillary canines

The maxillary canines have the following numbers according to each dental notation system:

The numbers of the mandibular canines are as follows:

  • 22 and 27 (Universal Tooth Numbering System)
  • 33 and 43 (ISO-3950 system)
  • 3 and 3(Palmer system)

The canines have single, very long and deep roots, flattened and grooved on the sides. They are longer than the roots of the other teeth types. Their crowns have sharpened conical shapes with spear-like cutting edges. 

This teeth type is used for food gripping, cutting and tearing. Also, the canines are known as the cornerstones of each arch, they are very strong, and they help retain prosthesis.

 

Note: The Universal Tooth Numbering System is used in the 3D model for canine teeth numbering.