What can I use in place of a tooth for my science experiment?

Question

I'm doing a science experiment to see which type of soda is the worst for your teeth, but I'm having a hard time with finding what to substitute teeth with. I've heard of using eggshells, seashells, or limestone. Are there any other materials or substances that are similar to teeth? What should I use in place of teeth and why? Thanks. :)

Btw, I don't want to go to the dentist to get teeth, since they would be too different from each other. Thanks for understanding.

Answer 1

Don't use a tooth substitutes...there are plenty of places to get good teeth legally.



Teeth are coated with enamel, and are the only place on the body where you can find enamel. This is not the same as the enamel as in enamel-based paint (that would be too easy lol). Go to a vet who does dentistry and ask him/her to save you some dog teeth, preferably molars. Pig teeth are similar in shape to humans'; you might try a farmer for that. If you want all of your teeth to come from the same animal, go to the animal shelter and ask if you can extract teeth from a euthanized animal in good health.



If you use extracted animal teeth, make sure you use teeth that are completely covered in enamel...that rules out horses, cows, deer, etc., any artiodactyl or perissodactyl. Armadillo teeth have no enamel, so they're definitely out.

Answer 2

Fingernails are very different. Bones are the closest. Take an uncooked chicken bone. I'd call some organic farmers I know and get a cow or pig tooth, but you may not have that ability.

Answer 3

I think fingernails are of the same material as teeth.

Answer 4

I don't know if this would help, but the first thing that comes to mind is marshmallow. It's sticky and you can easily shape it, cut it, and hold it in place.

Answer 5

I say the back alley downtown, but the kid says science must be ethical.