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Dentition
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Canines | Single, pointed cusp and a single root. They have the longest root of any tooth. Primary function is to tear food, mainly meat. |
| Incisors | Front teeth present in most mammals. Single root and a sharp lateral edge. Primary function is to cut food. |
| Molars | Broader and flatter surfaces with 4-5 cusps and multiple roots. Designed to Grind food. |
| Dental pad | ‘browsing pad’ is a feature of ruminant dental anatomy. They have a lack of upper incisors so they can gather large quantities of grass and other plant matter. |
| Diastema | The gaps between rows of teeth. |
| Crown | Visible part of the tooth, above the gum |
| Neck of the tooth | Area between the crown and the root |
| Root | Area below the gum line |
| Enamel | Covers the crown to protect the inner layers of teeth from being damaged by dietary acids |
| Pulp | Tissue inside the root canal which consists of blood vessels, connective tissue and large nerves |
| Dentine | Inner material of the tooth which provides support to he enamel to prevent fractures |
| Cement | Binds teeth to the jaw |
| Tusks | Elongated, continuously growing front teeth that protrude well beyond the mouth of certain mammal species |