Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pleurodont

Adjective

/ˌplʊə.rəˈdɒnt/

Definition

A type of dental arrangement in which teeth are fused to the inner side of the jawbone, as opposed to being situated in sockets.

Examples

The chameleons exhibit pleurodont teeth, allowing for a unique feeding mechanism.
Many lizards have a pleurodont dental structure that enhances their ability to capture prey.
Pleurodont dentition is contrasted with thethecodont arrangement found in mammals.

Meaning

Pleurodont refers to a particular form of tooth attachment found in some reptiles, where the teeth are attached to the jaw rather than being rooted in sockets.