Dental Anatomy & Occlusion Flashcards

What is the 'broadest' tooth mesiodistally in the permanent dentition?

Answer: Maxillary first molar

The maxillary first molar is the largest tooth by crown volume and one of the widest mesiodistally. It has the largest occlusal surface area of any posterior tooth, reflecting its dominant role in mastication.

What is centric relation (CR) in prosthodontic terms?

Answer: The maxillomandibular relationship when the condyles are in their most superior and anterior position in the glenoid fossae, regardless of tooth contact

Centric relation (updated definition) is the position when the mandibular condyles are in their most superoanterior position against the posterior slope of the articular eminence, providing a reproducible reference for prosthodontic construction.

The mesiolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar is sometimes called the 'cusp of':

Answer: Nance (sometimes referred to as the dominant palatal cusp, related to Nance contact point) — though the Cusp of Carabelli is the additional cusp

The mesiolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar is the largest cusp and is sometimes referred to in orthodontic literature as 'Nance's cusp'. The Cusp of Carabelli is a separate 5th accessory cusp on the mesiopalatal cusp.

How many canals does a mandibular central incisor typically have?

Answer: Commonly 2 canals (one labial, one lingual) in a single root — though may appear as one canal radiographically

The mandibular central incisor has a single root but often 2 canals (labial and lingual), which may join into one at the apex. This is important in endodontic treatment as the second canal is easily missed.

What is the 'angle of the mandible' and why is it clinically significant in dentistry?

Answer: The gonial angle — at the junction of the posterior border of the ramus and the lower border of the body; relates to growth pattern and impacts orthognathic assessment

The gonial angle (angle of mandible) is typically 100–130°. A high gonial angle indicates a vertical growth pattern; a low angle indicates horizontal growth. This impacts treatment planning in orthodontics and orthognathic surgery.