A complete adult human dentition usually contains 32 permanent teeth, including four wisdom teeth.
These teeth are arranged in two arches: 16 in the upper jaw and 16 in the lower jaw. Each side normally has two incisors, one canine, two premolars, and three molars, although the final molar is the wisdom tooth.
The 32-tooth count refers to a complete permanent set. Many adults have fewer because wisdom teeth may never develop, remain impacted, or be surgically removed. Some people also lose teeth through decay, gum disease, or injury.
Children typically have 20 primary, or deciduous, teeth. These baby teeth are gradually replaced by permanent teeth, with the first adult molars appearing behind the primary teeth rather than replacing them. The term “wisdom tooth” specifically refers to the third molar, which commonly emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood.