Why didn’t evolution decide our teeth can only be maintained through dental chemicals and treatment?
During most of human history, we ate almost no sugars at all (hunter gatherer societies have very few sources of carbohydrates, i.e. complex sugars). It is carbohydrates and sugars that feed the bacteria that cases tooth decay (the bacteria converts sugar to acids, which dissolve the calcium in t…
The Short Answer
During most of human history, we ate almost no sugars at all (hunter gatherer societies have very few sources of carbohydrates, i.e. complex sugars). It is carbohydrates and sugars that feed the bacteria that cases tooth decay (the bacteria converts sugar to acids, which dissolve the calcium in the enamel), and stone age people rarely ate enough sugars for this to become a problem. What stone age societies actually have a problem with is constantly chewing tough meats and roots causing teeth to wear away and fall out. And that's why adults grow wisdom teeth, to replace those fallen teeth.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Sugars, teeth, societies
This explanation focuses on sugars, teeth, societies and spans 101 words across 5 sentences. At 40% above the average Science explanation (72 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “During most of human history, we ate almost no sugars at all (hunter gatherer societies have very few sources of carbohy” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 5 connected points.
How This Compares in Science
Ranked #121 of 500 Science questions by answer depth (top 25%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why why didn't evolution decide our teeth can only be maintained through dental chemicals and treatment?
During most of human history, we ate almost no sugars at all (hunter gatherer societies have very few sources of carbohydrates, i.e. complex sugars). It is carbohydrates and sugars that feed the bacteria that cases tooth decay (the bacteria converts…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Science questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 101 words, ranked #121 of 500 Science questions by depth. The key concepts covered are sugars, teeth, societies.
What approach does this answer take to explain why didn't evolution decide our teeth can only be maintained?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 101 words. It is categorized under Science and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.