Permanent Posterior Teeth Overview

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Questions and Answers

What characterizes the occlusal surface of permanent posterior teeth?

It has a flat surface bordered by lateral ridges.

It has a smooth surface without any ridges.

It includes only one cusp with no inclined planes.

It features raised marginal ridges on the distal and mesial surfaces. (correct)

What is the function of triangular ridges on posterior teeth?

To create additional cusps on the occlusal table.

To determine the height of the occlusal surface.

To connect the cusps to the marginal ridges.

To descend from the cusp tips toward the central part of the occlusal table. (correct)

How are the inclined cuspal planes named?

By their color and size.

Based on the angles of the cusp ridges.

According to the number of cusps present.

By combining the names of the cusp ridges they lie between. (correct)

Where is the central fossa located on posterior teeth?

At the convergence of the cusp ridges. Signup and view all the answers

What describes occlusal pits found on permanent posteriors?

They are sharp pinpoint depressions where grooves meet. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature is described as a collective term for two triangular ridges crossing the occlusal table?

Transverse ridge Signup and view all the answers

What type of groove is also referred to as primary grooves on the occlusal table of posterior teeth?

Developmental grooves Signup and view all the answers

How many cusps are typically found on the occlusal surface of permanent posterior teeth?

Some teeth can have two or more cusps. Signup and view all the answers

What is the most prominent developmental groove on posterior teeth?

Central groove Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of the marginal grooves on posterior teeth?

To allow food escape during mastication Signup and view all the answers

Where is the height of contour for the buccal surface of posterior crowns typically found?

Cervical third Signup and view all the answers

How does the CEJ curvature of posterior teeth compare to that of anterior teeth?

Less pronounced on posteriors Signup and view all the answers

What increases the risk of caries in posterior teeth?

Complex pit and groove patterns Signup and view all the answers

What are the root branches of multirooted posterior teeth referred to as?

Furcations Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes supplemental grooves on posterior teeth?

Shallower and more irregular Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of root fusion in a bifurcated posterior tooth?

Little remaining root trunk structure Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Permanent Posterior Teeth

Permanent posterior teeth include premolars and molars.
The occlusal surface of posterior teeth acts as the masticatory surface.
The occlusal surface is bordered by the marginal ridges, located on the distal and mesial surfaces.
The occlusal surface has multiple cusps and cusp ridges.
Cusp ridges descend from the cusp tip and form an inclination plane
The occlusal surface forms a table bordered by the marginal ridges.
Triangular ridges descend from the cusp to the center of the occlusal table.
A transverse ridge is formed when two triangular ridges meet, creating a cross from the labial to lingual side.
The occlusal table has depressions called fossae - central fossa located at the meeting point of the grooves and triangular fossae, which are associated with the triangular grooves
Occlusal pits are found at the deepest part of the fossa.
The occlusal table has developmental grooves, which mark the junction of the lobes.
Developmental grooves are deep V shaped depressions.
The central groove is the main developmental groove and separates the occlusal table.
Marginal grooves cross the marginal ridges, allowing food to escape.
Triangular grooves are between the marginal ridge and triangular cusp ridges.
Supplemental grooves are shallower and less regular than developmental grooves.
Most posteriors are wider LL than MD, except mandibular molars.
The contact area is wider and usually located buccally.
The CEJ curvature is less pronounced, often straight on posterior teeth.

Root Structures

Posterior teeth have a single root trunk at the base of the crown.
The root trunk can bifurcate (two roots) or trifurcate (three roots).
Some bifurcated teeth can have fused roots.
Furcation is the area between two or more root branches, before they divide from the root trunk.
Crotches are the furcation spaces between roots.

Clinical Considerations

The complex pit and groove pattern increases the risk of caries.
The structure of enamel in pits and grooves makes posterior teeth more susceptible to caries.
Deep pit and groove patterns may benefit from the application of dental sealants.

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Description

This quiz covers the structure and features of permanent posterior teeth, including premolars and molars. Learn about the occlusal surface, its cusps, ridges, and various anatomical features that play a crucial role in dental function. Test your knowledge about how these teeth contribute to mastication and their unique characteristics.