Which teeth are sometimes referred to as the "eye" teeth?

Canines are referred to as the "eye" teeth primarily because of their location in the mouth and their prominent position in the dental arch. They are situated next to the incisors, and their pointed shape resembles that of a fang, which aids in the tearing of food. The term "eye" teeth is thought to have originated from an association with the adjacent eyes in terms of anatomical positioning, as well as the important role they play in aesthetics and the alignment of the smile.

In contrast, premolars, incisors, and bicuspids do not share this identification. Premolars are primarily used for grinding food, incisors are flat and used for cutting, and the term "bicuspids" is often used interchangeably with premolars, further distinguishing them from the canines. Thus, the special designation of canines as "eye" teeth highlights their unique function and significance in both dental structure and facial aesthetics.