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It’s easy to assume that humans have always had teeth like the ones we have today. However, the truth is that our mouths today are the way they are now because of millions of years of evolutionary design. If you’re interested in learning more about how your smile came to look the way it does, read on to discover the fascinating history!
What Were Human Teeth Like in the Past?
Did you know that about 7 million years ago, our early ancestors had longer jaws with a more pronounced protrusion? Ancient people had long U-shaped or rectangular jawbones that allowed their teeth to be arranged in two more parallel rows. The front of their mouths contained four front incisors like ours do, but theirs were separated from longer, pointier canines by a slight diastema (gap). This layout was more akin to modern chimpanzees than contemporary human jaws.
Then, about 5.5 million years ago, the canines became smaller, and 3.5 million years ago, the jawbone began to widen, which allowed rows of teeth to be wider at the back than at the front, which had not been the case before. About 250,000 years ago, we developed a pointed chin to strengthen our now-shorter jaws arranged in a parabolic arch.
Why Did Human Teeth Evolve?
The changes in our ancestors’ dental development are primarily attributed to changes in dietary strategies. As different populations adapted to shifting environmental conditions, their mouths adjusted to meet their changed needs.
A substantial portion of this alteration is likely due to an updated diet. Early humans ate raw, tough foods that required larger teeth to thoroughly grind them so they could be easily swallowed and digested. Then, as softer foods became more common and people began using tools and fire to cook, their teeth grew shorter and duller to accommodate.
What Are Human Teeth Like Today?
As the human skull evolved, the jawbone became shorter and rounder for a vertical rather than projecting profile. This forced teeth closer together, so the gap between the canines and their neighbors disappeared in time. Now, these chompers are more rounded and smaller than they once were. However, they are not the only pearly whites that underwent massive changes. Incisors, premolars, and molars also became flatter with each generation, with low, blunt cusps on the grinding surface.
Another notable change is that our teeth today are coated with a much thicker layer of enamel than before. This protective outer layer helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and physical injuries, protecting and preserving our smiles in the long run.
Now that you know more about how and why your smile looks the way it does today, you can appreciate your pearly whites that much more!
About the Practice
At Real Dental, you and your family benefit from a team of experts who work together to offer a full range of services to streamline your oral care needs. With general dentists and a Pediatric Specialist, they are experienced in helping people of all ages build and maintain happy, healthy smiles. They combine a personable approach with advanced technology to increase patient comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. If you need a checkup or cleaning, you can request an appointment on the website or call (817) 406-7239.
