Role of Teeth in the Digestive System

Teeth help you smile and speak. They also allow you to eat! Whether breakfast, lunch, dinner, or in-between, your food goes through the same entrance: your mouth. Your teeth, tongue, and saliva are the start of the digestive system, which is the body system that allows you to fuel your body’s organs, movement, and mental function.

The Digestive System

The digestive system consists of a series of organs and components that work together to digest the foods and liquids you consume. During this process, food and liquids are broken into smaller parts for the body to absorb and use for energy, growth, and repair. Digestion is important because everyone needs adequate nutrients and hydration from their diet to function properly and repair cells and tissues.

The Mouth

The mouth is a major component of the digestive system. While teeth allow you to smile and speak, teeth also allow you to chew. Chewing allows the release of enzymes and lubricants in the mouth, which breaks food into small pieces for digestion. Poor dental health can negatively affect how you chew food and how well food travels in your digestive system.

The Functions of Teeth

Did you know each type of tooth has specific characteristics and performs a specific function? There are four types of teeth: incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.

The central and lateral incisors are the teeth at the front of the mouth. Their function is to cut through food. Next to the incisors are the canines, which tear through food. The premolars and molars, located towards the back of the mouth, primarily grind and chew food.

Preventive Dental Care in Murfreesboro

Visiting our team at Salem Creek Family Dental for regular dental exams and cleanings can help your different types of teeth stay healthy and continue to play their vital roles in the digestion process! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

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Categorised in: Oral Health