The teeth of a wolf are adapted for their role as predators. They are similar to that of any other large, meat eating animal such as a lion or tiger. They need large, powerful jaws for attacking and holding on to prey.

Wolves have 42 teeth compared to 32 for humans. Their teeth consist of twelve incisors, four canines, sixteen pre molars, and ten carnassials and molars . The largest are the canines, or fangs, which measure over two inches long including the part within the jaw. The canine teeth on the top and bottom of the jaw interlock so that the wolf can grip and hold on to struggling prey.

Besides hunting, wolves teeth can serve other purposes as well. Adults carry wolf pups with their teeth. They are also weapons used against other predators or threatening wolves. Wolves also use their teeth as "ritual weapons".

Wolves may show the some of the incisors and canine teeth in a "submissive grin." "Bared teeth" is an early warning of the possibility of an attack, especially if the muzzle is wrinkled. Just before a wolf bites, its mouth will be wide open. Thus teeth play a role in hunting, protection and communication. (http://www3.cesa10.k12.wi.us/clustera/multimedia/altoona/solfest/
teeth.htm)