In the permanent dentition, each quadrant of the mouth contains a specific number of teeth that serve different functions. The premolars, also known as bicuspids, are situated between the canines and the molars. Their primary role is to assist in grinding and tearing food, bridging the function between the tearing capacity of canines and the grinding function of molars.

Key Points:
- Each quadrant in the permanent dentition has 2 premolars.
- These premolars are typically termed as the first premolar and the second premolar.
- Therefore, in the entire permanent dentition, there are 8 premolars in total (2 premolars × 4 quadrants).

This arrangement aids in efficient mastication and helps maintain the proper alignment and occlusion of teeth.

Reference: Wheeler’s Dental Anatomy, Physiology and Occlusion, 10th Edition, Chapter 3: Permanent Dentition / Page 45