Types of Teeth and their adaptation to the type of food
(a) Incisors
Located at the front of the jaw.
Are chisel-shaped and sharp for cutting and biting food.
Have one root.
(b) Canines
Located behind the incisors on the left and right hand side of the jaws.
Are sharp pointed/conical shaped to tear flesh, and also pierce and hold the prey especially in carnivores.
In omnivores they are poorly developed.
Have 1 root.
(c) Premolars
Located after the canines towards the back of the jaw bone.
Have 2 roots.
Have broad surfaces with cusps/ridges for crushing and grinding food.
(d) Molars
Normally erupt at the back of the jawbone.
Are used for crushing and grinding food.
Have broad surfaces with cusps/ridges for crushing and grinding food.
Have 3 – 4 roots depending on the animal.
