What does “Incisor” mean?
Incisors are front teeth that cut food at the front of the mouth. It is divided into the central incisors in the middle and the lateral incisors next to them, and is also involved in pronunciation and the shape of the smile.
Original spelling: 앞니
What shape and role does it have?
The chewing tip is relatively thin, making it ideal for cutting food. They are distinguished from the sharp tips like canines or the broad chewing surfaces like molars.
What do you look for when treating front teeth?
The dentist checks fractures, decay, and discoloration, as well as the remaining tooth structure, gums, and contact with the lower teeth. Chewing function is considered when planning the visible length and color.
Do front teeth and incisors always mean the same thing?
In everyday language, “front teeth” may include the canines. In dentistry, “incisors” specifically means the central and lateral incisors, so the tooth being treated is identified by its number and location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a crown even if the tip of my front tooth is slightly chipped?
Depending on the size of the damage and the condition of the pulp and any cracks, smoothing or composite resin restoration may be possible. Whether the tooth needs full coverage is assessed separately.
If I just change the shape of my front teeth, will my pronunciation change?
Teeth length and position are related to the movement of the lips and tongue, so pronunciation and function are also checked in case of major shape changes. The degree of change varies from person to person.
Questions needed to understand incisors
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which side of which incisor is treated?
Explanation and evidenceIt is easy to understand the scope of treatment by distinguishing between the central and lateral incisors and the location of the damage.
Dentalcare · Types of Teeth and their Functions - A choice suited to your condition
How much of the tooth can be preserved?
Explanation and evidenceCompare ways to restore the shape by distinguishing the area requiring restoration from the natural tooth structure that remains.
Cleveland Clinic Restorative Dentistry
Further reading and references
References
- Dentalcare · Types of Teeth and their Functionsdentalcare.com (opens in a new tab)
- Cleveland Clinic · Teeth: Anatomy, Types, Function & Caremy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
- American Association of Endodontists · Cracked Teethaae.org (opens in a new tab)
- Cleveland Clinic Restorative Dentistrymy.clevelandclinic.org (opens in a new tab)
