Zebras

Growing Teeth

Humans grow baby teeth that fall out when we are young. In their place grow our adult teeth. Our adult teeth stop growing once the tops have pushed out through our gums. Zebra teeth work differently. Zebras' teeth keep growing their whole lives.

Why don't we see zebras with fangs like snakes or tusks like elephants? Zebras grind their teeth when they eat, which keeps them from ever getting too big. As zebras chew their plant food, they rub their teeth back and forth to mash the food down until it is ready to swallow. This rubbing of the teeth causes them to wear down.