What are the differences between diente y muela?

Question

Any differences between them?

Answer 1

Hi there,

All of them are dientes in general or in a non specific context. But it is good to be able to differentiate them.

• Muela = molar. Molar is both an English and Spanish word. They are also called back teeth. Premolares (see picture) qualify as dientes rather thatn muelas but this word is not used in informal speaking.

Examples:

• Tengo dolor de muelas. I have toothache
• Se me ha roto un diente / una muela. (It depends on what piece you broke).
• Tengo algo entre los dientes. (There's something stuck in my teeth)

Saludos.

Excellent answer! - rac1, Oct 22, 2013

Muchas gracias. - zhmelissa, Oct 22, 2013

Thank you for the useful picture, relaxing cup. - annierats, Oct 22, 2013