Shovel-shaped incisors

Shovel-shaped incisors are a genetic trait often found in populations of East Asian and Native American descent. This dental characteristic is named for its distinctive, shovel-like shape on the lingual side (the side facing the tongue) of the incisor teeth, most commonly the upper ones.

Characteristics

Shovel-shaped incisors are marked by their broad, curved shape, which is reminiscent of a shovel. The lingual side of the tooth often has ridges along the top and bottom, and the cingulum (the raised area at the base of the tooth) is more pronounced. This trait is a type of dental morphology and is used in anthropology to study human evolution and migration patterns.

Genetic Basis

The presence of shovel-shaped incisors is determined by genetics. It is associated with the EDAR gene, which is involved in the development of hair, skin, and teeth. The variant of this gene that leads to shovel-shaped incisors is more common in East Asian and Native American populations, suggesting that it was beneficial in these groups' ancestral environments.

Anthropological Significance

Shovel-shaped incisors have been used as a morphological marker in anthropological studies to trace human migration patterns. The prevalence of this trait in East Asian and Native American populations supports the theory that Native Americans descended from East Asian ancestors who crossed the Bering Land Bridge.

See Also

• Dental Anthropology
• Human Tooth
• Genetics