Sagittal section of the mandible of Elephas maximus. The dentition of elephants is unique. The canine teeth are lost so that only the incisors, premolars, and molars are retained. The pattern of replacement of the molariform teeth resembles a conveyor belt with teeth emerging at the back of the mouth and then being pushed forward. Mastication is performed using only one molariform tooth per quadrant. As one tooth is worn down, another pushes forward to take its place and the worn tooth is spit out. When the last molar is worn down, the elephant becomes highly susceptible to starvation.