COA Dental Anatomy & Oral Development

Question 1

How many permanent teeth does a fully dentate adult typically have, including third molars (wisdom teeth)?

Accepted Answer

32

Answer

A fully dentate adult has 32 permanent teeth: 8 incisors, 4 canines, 8 premolars, 8 molars (including 4 third molars).

Question 2

The permanent canine teeth are clinically referred to by which alternative name?

Accepted Answer

Cuspids

Answer

Canine teeth are also called cuspids because they have a single prominent cusp, distinguishing them from multi-cusped premolars and molars.

Question 3

Which tooth structure is considered the hardest substance in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Enamel

Answer

Enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, composed of approximately 96% hydroxyapatite crystals, making it more mineralized than bone, dentin, or cementum.

Question 4

The fibrous connective tissue that attaches the tooth root to the surrounding alveolar bone is called the:

Accepted Answer

Periodontal ligament

Answer

The periodontal ligament (PDL) is a specialized connective tissue that suspends the tooth in its socket by connecting cementum on the root to the alveolar bone.

Question 5

The labial surface of an anterior tooth refers to the surface that faces:

Accepted Answer

The lips

Answer

The labial surface faces the lips; 'labial' derives from 'labium' (Latin for lip), and this term is used specifically for anterior (front) teeth.

COA - Certified Orthodontic Assistant Practice Test

COA - Certified Orthodontic Assistant Practice Test

COA Dental Anatomy & Oral Development