Dentition:

The arrangement, type, and number of teeth in an animal’s mouth.

Types of Dentition:

• Deciduous Dentition: Also known as “baby teeth” or “milk teeth,” this is the first set of teeth that humans and many animals develop. They eventually fall out and are replaced by permanent teeth.
• Permanent Dentition: The second set of teeth that follow the deciduous dentition. These teeth are typically larger and stronger, and they remain in the mouth for the rest of an individual’s life.
• Heterodont Dentition: Referring to animals that have different types of teeth with distinct shapes and functions. Humans and many mammals have heterodont dentition.
• Homodont Dentition: Referring to animals that have uniform teeth that are all the same shape and perform similar functions. Examples include reptiles, most fish, and some amphibians.
• Diphyodont Dentition: The presence of two sets of teeth during an animal’s lifetime, such as humans and most mammals.
• Monophyodont Dentition: The presence of only a single set of teeth during an animal’s lifetime, such as most fish and reptiles.

Teeth and their Roles:

• Incisors: Sharp, chisel-like teeth found in the front of the mouth used for cutting and nibbling food.
• Canines: Pointed, cone-shaped teeth located next to the incisors, often used for tearing and holding onto food.
• Premolars: Smaller, flat-topped teeth located behind the canines, assisting in grinding and shearing food.
• Molars: Large, flat teeth positioned at the back of the mouth, primarily responsible for grinding and crushing food.
• Third Molars (Wisdom Teeth): The last set of molars that typically erupt in late adolescence or early adulthood. They often require removal due to impaction or lack of space in the mouth.