Ologies with Alie Ward Paleohistology (WHY TEETH EXIST) with Yara Haridy
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Jan 21, 2026 
Join paleohistologist Dr. Yara Haridy, an expert in ancient tissues and teeth evolution, as she explores the surprising origins and evolution of our chompers. Discover how ancient tooth-like structures, known as odontodes, transformed into the teeth we know today. Yara also shares her unique paleontological journey, the excitement of fossil digging, and the rare effects of hormonal activity on dental health. Plus, hear about her work unraveling the mysteries of tiny fossils and the evolutionary tales they tell.
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Teeth Began As External Mineralized Armor
- Teeth and bone are mineralized tissues made by biomineralization, tracing back hundreds of millions of years.
- The earliest tooth-like tissues (odontodes) appear deep in the Ordovician/Cambrian fossil record on external armor, not originally inside mouths.
From Skin Bumps To Jaw Teeth
- Fossils show odontodes grading into sharper structures at the jaw margin as jaws evolved in the Devonian.
- That grading suggests teeth originated by either migration of odontodes or re-expression of odontode genetics inside the mouth.
Proto-Teeth Look Like Grape Nuts
- Haridi showed vials of tiny Cambrian/Ordovician odontode fragments that look like 'grape nuts' or 'rice grains.'
- Those minute, well-preserved pieces yield excellent histology and scanning data despite their size.