hypsodont tooth
Quick Summary
In zoology, a hypsodont tooth is characterized by a high crown that extends well above the gum line. This feature is an adaptation for herbivores, particularly grazers, as it provides a larger surface area for grinding tough plant material and allows the tooth to withstand significant wear over time.1
Hypsodonty is associated with the development of secondary cement, which fills the hollows between the tooth's ridges, strengthening it and increasing its resistance to wear. This evolutionary trend is seen in animals like horses, where the premolars and molars become increasingly similar and highly crowned, a condition that allows for continuous growth throughout life. This contrasts with brachydont teeth, which have low crowns and are more typical of browsing herbivores.1
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