Dental Anatomy: Mandibular Second Molar

Questions and Answers

What is a distinguishing feature of the mandibular second molar compared to other molars?

It has a rounded square occlusal outline. (correct)

It lacks supplemental grooves.

It has six cusps.

It features only one root.

Which aspect of the mandibular second molar shows only one developmental groove dividing the cusps?

Mesial aspect

Lingual aspect

Buccal aspect (correct)

Distal aspect

How is the occlusal surface of the mandibular second molar characterized?

It has a central groove meeting other grooves at right angles. (correct)

It features a prominent distal cusp.

It has only two visible cusps.

It is roughly triangular.

In which aspect of the mandibular second molar is the cervical ridge buccally less pronounced?

Mesial aspect Signup and view all the answers

What unique feature is mostly observed in the distal aspect of the mandibular second molar?

Visibility of the occlusal surface Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is NOT characteristic of the mandibular third molar?

It has more pronounced roots. Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of the buccal surface of the mandibular second molar?

It is shorter and narrower mesio-distally than the first molar. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the supplemental grooves on the mandibular second molar is true?

They radiate from the developmental grooves. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Mandibular Second Molar

Characterized by a rounded square occlusal outline.
Features four cusps: two buccal and two lingual.
Mesio-distal breadth similar to the mandibular first molar (6), with cusps positioned closely together.
Buccal surface displays a single groove.
Numerous supplemental grooves present on the occlusal surface.
Comprises two roots that are narrower and less broad than those of the first molar.

Buccal Aspect

Crown is shorter and narrower mesio-distally compared to the first molar (6).
A developmental groove separates the mesio-buccal and disto-buccal cusps, which are equal in size.
The roots (mesial and distal) are less broad and positioned closely together.

Lingual Aspect

Only the lingual cusp is visible, as its tips are higher than those of the buccal cusps.

Mesial Aspect

The buccal cervical ridge is less pronounced, and the occlusal surface is more constricted bucco-lingually.
The cervical line shows no curvature.
Both roots can be observed from this perspective.

Distal Aspect

Absence of a distinct distal cusp and disto-buccal groove.
Offers a clear view of most of the occlusal surface.

Occlusal Aspect

Generally presents a roughly rectangular outline.
Central groove lies in the center, with the lingual and buccal developmental grooves meeting at right angles to it.
Contains four cusps: mesio-buccal, disto-buccal, mesio-lingual, and disto-lingual.
Numerous supplemental grooves radiate from the main developmental grooves.

Mandibular Third Molar

Crown resembles that of the second molar but is smaller and more rounded.
Features two roots that are typically short, underdeveloped, and often fused.
Contains four cusps but may present additional cusps.
Buccal surface is inclined towards the lingual side.
Exhibits a significant amount of supplemental grooves.

Description

Dive into the key features of the mandibular second molar in this quiz. Test your knowledge on its identifying characteristics, including occlusal outline, cusp arrangement, and root structure. Perfect for dental students and professionals looking to refresh their understanding.