Teeth have been given many nicknames over the years. Most stem from their appearance or function, although some others sound random and purposeless. The nickname you use, if you use any, may be something not mentioned here. This is because some nicknames are specific to a group of people. A slang word used to describe teeth in one group of friends may not be known by another group. Therefore, if the second group were to hear that term, they would not know what it means. In any case, there are a number of established and well-known nicknames for teeth, some of which are listed below.
“White pearls.” The image is an important part of our daily lives, as human beings. Our desire to look good extends not only to our clothes or hairstyles, but also to our teeth. A great smile can be a powerful tool. Those interested in a “perfect smile” will work to make their teeth as white as possible. The nickname “pearly whites” probably derives from the fact that pearls can also be white and very beautiful. Having a mouth full of big and beautiful pearl white teeth would be favorable for many. So it makes sense that the nickname “pearl whites” would be given to teeth, or someone with exceptionally attractive teeth.
“Combers”. Without a doubt, this nickname arose from the function of a tooth and less from its appearance. The term literally translates as eating or chewing loudly. It is mainly used to describe how animals like cows or horses eat oats or hay, but it can also be a descriptive way of describing how some humans eat. Certainly, there is nothing quiet or calm about chewing. The term suggests a noisy or harsh chewing process, much like you would find in a pasture. Over the years, the term for what people bite…their “chompers”…just stuck. Today, the term is used to describe anyone’s teeth, not necessarily just those who chew/eat loudly or wildly.
“Rabbit Tooth”. Once again, we return to visual cues. Like a rabbit, some unlucky people are born with front teeth that are too large or positioned so that they stick out from the rest. Certain dental procedures can reduce the length or size of these teeth, but are often not recommended until the patient reaches adulthood. These and other dental procedures can be dangerous to perform during the growing stages of a young person’s life and are often postponed. In any case, with these two protruding front teeth, the nickname “buck tooth” has been thrown around. Not always in the nicest of meanings, but popular nonetheless.
