BioNinja

Computer modelling software can be used to explore the physical structure of different types of teeth (based on images generated by electron tomography)

• Click on the models below to explore the structures identified

Cow Teeth (Herbivore)

Herbivores have teeth that are highly specialized for eating plants. Because plant matter is often difficult to break down, the molars of herbivores are wider and flatter (designed to grind food). Herbivore incisors are sharp for tearing plants, but they may not be present on both the upper and lower jaw. Herbivores will also have a gap between their teeth (called a diastema) to enable the repositioning of food while chewing.

Wolf Teeth (Carnivore)

Carnivores have a set of teeth that are specialised for killing prey and eating meat. The sharp incisors and pointed canine teeth are perfectly designed for both incapacitating and eating. A canine tooth can be easily identified, as it is the longer, pointed tooth located on either side of the incisors. The molars are fewer in number, mainly because so much of the work is done by the teeth in the front of the mouth. While the presence of canine teeth does not guarantee the animal is a carnivore, it is an indicator that meat is some part of the diet.

Macaque Teeth (Omnivore)

Omnivore teeth are a versatile mix, featuring sharp incisors and canines for biting meat, plus flatter molars with ridges for grinding plants. Macaque teeth feature large, sexually dimorphic canines (especially in males) for display and defense. They also have specialized lower first premolars that hone the canines, and high-crowned molars for processing diverse diets.

Early Hominin (Ardipithicus)

Late Hominin (Homo sapiens)