HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which term describes teeth of various shapes?

1. Monophyodont

2. Heterodont

3. Diphyodont

4. Acnemodont

The correct answer is: Heterodont

The term that describes teeth of various shapes is "heterodont." This concept refers to the presence of different types of teeth, each uniquely shaped for specific functions, such as incisors for cutting, canines for tearing, and molars for grinding. This variety in tooth shape is crucial for efficient chewing and processing of different kinds of food, helping in the overall digestion process. In contrast, monophyodont refers to species that have only one set of teeth during their lifetime, which do not vary in shape. Diphyodonts have two successive sets of teeth (primary and secondary) but typically still share similar shapes within those sets. Acnemodont is not a standard term used to describe teeth and does not relate to tooth variation in shape. Thus, "heterodont" is the most accurate term to indicate a diversity of tooth shapes.