Heterodont

/ˌhɛtərəˈdɒnt/ adjective

Definition

Describing animals that have teeth of different shapes and sizes adapted for different functions, like humans with incisors, canines, and molars.

Etymology

From Greek hetero- (different) and odon (tooth), describing the variation in tooth morphology and function.

Kelly Says

Heterodont teeth are actually a mammalian superpower—your incisors slice, canines tear, and molars grind, but fish like sharks have homodont teeth (all the same), which is why they can replace teeth endlessly!

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