How many teeth are considered permanent in adulthood?

In adulthood, a typically complete set of permanent teeth includes 32 teeth. This full set consists of 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, and 12 molars, which comprise the additional 4 third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. The inclusion of the wisdom teeth means that individuals may have up to 32 permanent teeth if all develop and none are removed or lost due to other factors like decay or gum disease. Understanding the full complement of permanent teeth is essential for dental professionals, as it allows for proper assessment and management of oral health, including the development of dental treatment plans and the identification of any missing or impacted teeth.