MJDF Dental Anatomy & Physiology 3

Question 1

What is the primary mineralisation sequence of permanent teeth in humans?

Accepted Answer

First molars → incisors → canines → premolars → second molars → third molars

Answer

Permanent teeth begin mineralising in a roughly sequential pattern starting with first molars and incisors around birth, followed by canines, premolars, second molars, and finally third molars.

Question 2

What structure connects the enamel organ to the oral epithelium during tooth development?

Accepted Answer

Dental lamina

Answer

The dental lamina is the band of oral epithelium that ingrowths into the ectomesenchyme, connecting the developing enamel organ to the oral epithelium during tooth initiation.

Question 3

What is the function of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath?

Accepted Answer

Determine root length and number by directing radicular dentine formation

Answer

Hertwig's root sheath guides root formation by inducing dentine deposition along the root outline; its fenestrations determine where root furcations develop in multi-rooted teeth.

Question 4

Which cells are responsible for enamel formation?

Accepted Answer

Ameloblasts

Answer

Ameloblasts (from the inner enamel epithelium) secrete and mineralise enamel matrix; they are lost once enamel formation is complete, explaining why enamel cannot regenerate.

Question 5

What is the average eruption age of the maxillary permanent canine?

Accepted Answer

11–12 years

Answer

The maxillary permanent canine typically erupts at 11–12 years of age, often after the lateral incisor and premolars, and is the tooth most commonly impacted (after third molars).

MJDF Part 1 Practice Test

MJDF Part 1 Practice Test

MJDF Dental Anatomy & Physiology 3