Aproterodont

/ˌæp.rə.ˈtɛr.ə.dɑnt/ adjective

Definition

Describing teeth that do not develop with successive replacement; having teeth that don't follow the normal pattern of milk teeth being replaced by permanent teeth.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) plus 'proteros' (first, earlier) plus 'odont' (tooth). The term describes an absence of the typical anterior tooth replacement pattern.

Kelly Says

Most mammals have two sets of teeth—baby teeth get pushed out by adult teeth—but some creatures skip this whole process, which is what 'aproterodont' describes scientifically!

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