Tooth number 22 is the lower left canine, a permanent (adult) tooth. In the FDI (ISO 3950) system it is 33, and in Palmer notation it is ┌3.
Tooth #22 at a glance
| Universal (US) | 22 |
| FDI / ISO 3950 | 33 |
| Palmer | ┌3 |
| Name | Lower left canine |
| Type | Canine (adult tooth) |
| Jaw | Lower (mandible) |
| Side | Patient’s left |
| Comes in | 9-10 yrs |
| Roots | 1 |
| Root canals (usual) | 1 |
| Chewing surface | 1 pointed cusp |
Where it is and what it does
It sits in the lower jaw on the patient’s left side, at the corner of the mouth, third from the midline. Canines (also called cuspids or eye teeth) tear food and guide the jaw when it slides side to side. They have the longest roots of any teeth.
Neighbouring and related teeth
- In front of it (toward the midline): Tooth number 23, the lower left lateral incisor
- Behind it: Tooth number 21, the lower left first premolar
- Same tooth on the other side: Tooth number 27
- The matching tooth in the upper jaw: Tooth number 11
- Replaces: Baby tooth M, the baby lower left canine
Common dental work on this tooth
Canines are strong and long-lasting. Common issues are wear on the tip and gum recession on the cheek side.
Questions
What tooth is number 22?
Tooth number 22 is the lower left canine. Numbers 1 to 32 are used for adult teeth in the Universal system used in the United States, starting with the upper right wisdom tooth.
What is tooth number 22 in the FDI and Palmer systems?
In FDI it is 33, said digit by digit (“three-three”). The first digit is the quadrant and the second is the position from the midline. In Palmer notation it is ┌3.
When does tooth 22 come in?
Usually at about 9-10 yrs. Timing varies from person to person.
For education only. This is not dental advice; your dentist can tell you what is right for your own teeth.