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WSJ — World — Dinosaur Teeth — Science — Paleontology — Evolution

T. Rex Had Lizard-like Lips That Covered Its Teeth

A new study challenges the popular-culture depictions of T. rex and other theropods with exposed teeth, showing that these dinosaurs likely had thin, scaly lips that covered their teeth.

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  • T. rex and other theropods likely had thin, scaly lips that covered their teeth, according to a new study.
  • The popular depiction of theropods with exposed teeth is likely incorrect.
  • The lips of these dinosaurs did not have complex facial muscles and could not be moved independently.
  • The lips would have protected the teeth from wear and kept them hydrated in a moist environment.
  • The findings could open up new lines of inquiry into dinosaurs’ oral health and tooth pathologies.
T. Rex Had Lizard-like Lips That Covered Its Teeth
The chompers of two-legged carnivorous dinosaurs didn’t protrude outside their jaws, a new study suggests
WSJAylin Woodward

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