Dental Anatomy & Morphology Flashcards

The mandibular second premolar most commonly has which occlusal pattern?

Answer: Three-cusp (Y-type) pattern more frequently than two-cusp

The mandibular second premolar more frequently displays a three-cusp Y-type pattern with one buccal and two lingual cusps than the simpler two-cusp arrangement.

Which groove separates the mesiolingual and distolingual cusps on the occlusal surface of the mandibular first molar?

Answer: Lingual groove

The lingual groove runs lingually between the mesiolingual and distolingual cusps of the mandibular first molar.

What is the defining morphological feature that distinguishes the maxillary lateral incisor from the maxillary central incisor?

Answer: It is smaller and more variable in shape with a more rounded incisal edge

The maxillary lateral incisor is smaller and more variable in form than the central incisor, with a more rounded incisal edge and narrower mesiodistal width.

The 'cusp of Zuckerkandl' refers to a developmental anomaly sometimes seen on which tooth?

Answer: Mandibular first molar

The cusp of Zuckerkandl (also called the distal cusp or tuberculum paramolare) is an accessory cusp sometimes found on the distobuccal aspect of the mandibular first molar.

How many pulp horns are typically present in a maxillary first molar?

Answer: Four

The maxillary first molar typically has four pulp horns, each corresponding to its four main cusps (mesiobuccal, distobuccal, mesiolingual, distolingual).

Which surface of the mandibular canine is broader — the mesial or the distal?

Answer: The mesial surface is broader

The mesial surface of the mandibular canine is broader than the distal surface, and its contact area is more incisal.

Neonatal lines in primary tooth enamel mark which developmental event?

Answer: The physiological stress at birth

Neonatal lines are accentuated incremental lines in enamel and dentin that represent the metabolic disturbance experienced at the time of birth.