molar
Definition
Molar teeth are the largest and strongest teeth in the human mouth. They are used for grinding food. Molar teeth have a flat surface with four or five cusps, which are bumps on the chewing surface.
The shape of the molar tooth is adapted for grinding food. The flat surface allows the teeth to crush food into small pieces, and the cusps help to break down the food further.
Humans have 12 molars, six in each jaw. The first molars come in around the age of 6, and the second molars come in around the age of 12. The third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, can come in anywhere from the late teens to the early twenties.
Sometimes, wisdom teeth don't come in properly and can cause problems. In these cases, they may need to be removed.
The roots of molar teeth are also larger and stronger than the roots of other teeth. This is because molar teeth need to be able to withstand the force of chewing.
Molar teeth are an important part of the human dentition. They help us to eat and digest food, and they also help to keep our teeth clean.
How can the word be used?
The lion used its molars to crush the bones of its prey.
Different forms of the word
The word "molar" can be used as a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a tooth with a large, flat surface for grinding food. As an adjective, it means relating to or having to do with molars.
Etymology
The word "molar" comes from the Latin word "mola", which means "millstone". The Latin word "mola" is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "mel-", which means "to grind".
The word "molar" was first used in English in the 14th century to describe a tooth with a large, flat surface for grinding food. The word was originally used to compare the teeth to millstones, which are used to grind grain.
Question
What is a Molar and what are they used for?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Explain the characteristics and function of a molar tooth in human dentition. How does the structure of a molar tooth support its role in chewing and grinding food?
Answer:
A molar tooth is a specialised type of tooth found in human dentition. It is recognised for its broad surface area and intricate structure, adapted to efficiently grind and chew food during the digestive process. An adult typically has 12 molars, distributed three on each side of the upper and lower jaw.
The unique features of a molar tooth contribute to its function. The occlusal surface of a molar contains multiple raised points called cusps, which aid in breaking down food into smaller particles. Additionally, the presence of fissures and grooves further assists in mastication by increasing the surface area available for chewing.
The location of the molars at the rear of the mouth is crucial. This positioning enables them to effectively grind and crush tough and fibrous foods, facilitating the initial stages of digestion. The molars' strong structure and intricate design are well-suited for this purpose, allowing for efficient food breakdown before it enters the digestive system.
In conclusion, a molar tooth's characteristics, including its broad occlusal surface, cusps, and fissures, make it adept at chewing and grinding food. Positioned at the back of the mouth, molars play a pivotal role in the mechanical breakdown of food, preparing it for further digestion and nutrient absorption.