Canine Tooth (Fragment)
Dental structure (Odontoid), embedded in the core facial skeleton
Also known as: Eyetooth, Fang, Tusk-fragment
Classification
Dental structure (Odontoid), embedded in the core facial skeleton
Dimensions
Conical and elongated; teeth vary greatly in size by species, but are generally much denser and harder than other skeletal remains.
Key Features
Identifiable by its smooth, hard outer coating (enamel) and a distinctive cone-like shape that tapers to a dull or sharp point. Unlike standard bones, teeth have a solid, non-porous surface on the crown and a hollow or porous core where the root attached.
Similar Bones
Could be confused with a small antler tine or a claw. You can tell them apart because antlers have a rough, pebbled texture at the base and claws are usually made of keratin (like fingernails) which feels lighter and more flexible than the stony weight of a tooth.
Across Species
In the animal kingdom, teeth are specialized for diet. Predatory mammals like wolves or big cats have long, pointed canines for gripping. In contrast, walrus tusks are actually extreme versions of canines, while herbivores like deer often have very small or completely missing canines to make room for grinding molars.
Evolutionary History
Teeth evolved from armored skin scales in early fish known as placoderms. Over millions of years, these scales moved into the mouth and became specialized. The canine tooth eventually became the 'cornerstone' of the mammalian mouth, separating the nipping incisors in the front from the grinding cheek teeth in the back.
Photography Tips
Place the object next to a common item like a coin or ruler for size reference. Take one photo from the side to show the curve and another looking directly at the wide base to show the internal structure.