Research published in Nature reveals that the sensitivity of human teeth, causing discomfort from cold or dental procedures, originates from the exoskeletons of ancient armored fish. Evolutionary biologist Yara Haridy's study, initially focused on the earliest vertebrate, Anatolepis, unexpectedly found it to be an invertebrate. However, the analysis revealed a striking similarity between Anatolepis's armor and vertebrate teeth, suggesting that both structures served sensory functions. Examining modern fish embryos confirmed the presence of nerves in tooth-like scales, supporting the hypothesis that the sensitivity in our teeth is a legacy from these ancient fish.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.