How Hard Are Rat Teeth?
WouterRats have two main types of teeth: the incisors and the molars. Their incisors have a thick layer of enamel covering them below the gum line. These teeth continually grow and develop. Below the enamel is a softer substance called dentin. This makes them difficult to chew.
In a rat, the first molar erupts on the 19th day after birth, followed by a second molar on the 21st day. The third molar comes in two weeks later, around the 35th-40th day. After the first two molars erupt, the rate of molar growth slows down, but continues to grow at a slow rate.
Rats also have a unique jaw structure that helps them chew food. The incisors of a rat grow continuously throughout its life, which gives them a chisel-like shape. Its incisors would grow in a spiral at an angle of 86o. This constant growth prevents them from wearing out.
The most important thing to know about rat teeth is that the hardness of these teeth is equal to or less than that of human teeth. Human finger nails are about 2.5 on the Mohs scale, while a copper penny is 3.5 and a diamond is 10 on the scale. The reason why rats have such hard teeth is because they grind their incisors against each other for food and to create new holes.
Rats rarely have overgrown teeth, but it is still important to trim them at regular intervals. If the teeth become overgrown, your rat may not be able to chew its food and could eventually die. If you notice any overgrown teeth, take your rat to the veterinarian so that the problem can be treated.
