Few fossils are as instantly recognisable as a Tyrannosaurus rex tooth. Even if you've never seen one in person, you've probably spotted one in a museum, a film (JP?!), or maybe even in a toy dinosaur's mouth!
These impressive teeth could grow to over 30cm (12 inches) long including the root, making them some of the largest teeth of any meat-eating dinosaur. Unlike the thin, blade-like teeth of many predators, T. rex teeth were thick, incredibly strong, and built to withstand the enormous forces of their super strong bites.
The edges of each tooth were lined with tiny serrations, rather like a steak knife. Combined with one of the most powerful bites ever measured in a land animal, they allowed Tyrannosaurus to grip prey, slice through flesh, and even crush bone. In fact, fossilised bones have been found with unmistakable T. rex bite marks, giving us direct evidence of just how powerful these jaws really were.
Like modern sharks and crocodiles, Tyrannosaurus didn't rely on the same teeth for its entire life. As teeth became worn or damaged, replacements gradually grew beneath them, ready to take over when needed.
Fun fact: Tyrannosaurus teeth are often nicknamed "killer bananas" by fossil fans because of their thick, curved shape. When you see one of these things up close, it's clear to see why this is a perfect fruity Moniker!
