The more teeth a table saw blade has the smoother the cut and the fewer chips incurred. A table saw uses either a 10- or 12-inch blade. A 10-inch blade with 60 teeth cuts the same as a 12-inch blade with 96 teeth because the teeth are spaced the same distance apart. Both of these will cut hardwood smoothly, with few chips. Cross cut, or rip, hardwood like ash, maple, oak, cedar and cherry with a carbide-tipped blade, which has harder teeth and lasts longer.

On the Other: Veneers, Different Blades

Hardwood veneers require a non-carbide tip, 200-tooth veneer blade. Veneer requires more teeth on the blade. The non-carbine tip is the correct choice for a table saw when cutting softer wood, like a veneer, which is actually multiple layers of wood fused together. Veneer, even if made of hardwood, is softer than a solid piece of hardwood. Veneer should be cut slowly to avoid chips, but not so slowly as to "burn" the wood.

Bottom Line

When cutting hardwood, the right blade for the job depends on whether you have a solid piece of wood or a veneer. Use a carbide-tipped blade for a smooth cut on solid pieces. For hardwood veneer, however, choose a non-carbide tip with a higher number of teeth. Check your blades intermittently for broken teeth to avoid chipping wood when you are cutting. Slow, steady pressure makes the finished cut perfect and extends the life of the table saw blade.

Source:

The Rockler Saw Blade Selection Guide

Woodcraft: Choosing the Right Table Saw Blade

This Old House: Choosing and Using Table Saws