"Monophyodont" is a dental term used to describe animals with only one set of teeth throughout their lifespan. The word is pronounced [mɒnəˈfaɪədɒnt], with the stress on the third syllable. The prefix "mono-" means "one," and "phyo-" means "to generate or produce." The suffix "-dont" indicates teeth. Together, the word means "having one set of teeth generated or produced." This spelling may seem complicated, but mastering dental terminology requires attention to detail and a strong understanding of phonetics.
Monophyodont is an adjective that refers to a dental condition characterized by having only one set of teeth that erupt and are replaced just once during an organism's lifetime. The term is commonly used in the field of zoology and dentistry to describe species that possess permanent teeth that are not continuously replaced throughout their lives, as opposed to polyphyodont organisms which have multiple sets of teeth.
In monophyodont species, the first set of teeth, known as deciduous or baby teeth, are gradually replaced by the second set, which are permanent and remain with the individual for the rest of its life. This dental development typically occurs in mammals, including humans, as well as some reptiles and fish.
The term monophyodont is derived from the Greek words "mono" meaning "single" or "one" and "phyodont" meaning "having teeth." It is used to describe an important characteristic regarding dental evolution and adaptation in various species.
Monophyodont dentition serves diverse functions, such as biting, chewing, and processing food. The structure, shape, and arrangement of the teeth in these species are typically specialized to fulfill their specific dietary needs. Understanding the differences between monophyodont and polyphyodont dentition is crucial in the study of dental anatomy, evolutionary biology, and dental health.
Having one set of teeth only; without deciduous dentition; compare diphyodont and polyphyodont.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word monophyodont is derived from two Greek roots: mono- meaning single or one, and phyo- meaning to produce or to grow, and dont which refers to teeth. Therefore, monophyodont literally means having a single set of teeth.