Which type of teeth are primarily used for grinding food?

Molars are primarily used for grinding food due to their specific anatomical features. These teeth have a broad, flat surface with multiple cusps, which work together to effectively crush and grind food into smaller particles, making it easier to swallow and digest. Their position in the back of the mouth also allows them to exert the necessary force during chewing.

While premolars also contribute to grinding, their primary function is often considered to be tearing and crushing rather than pure grinding. Incisors are mainly used for cutting food, and canines are designed for tearing, which differentiates them from molars, which excel in the grinding process.