Primary Dentition Flashcards
What are the main functions of primary teeth?
Efficient chewing, supporting lips and cheeks, formulating clear speech, and maintaining space for permanent teeth.
When do primary teeth start to shed?
Between ages 6 and 7, continuing until 12 years.
How does the size of primary teeth compare to permanent teeth?
Primary teeth are smaller than permanent teeth.
What is unique about the enamel of primary teeth?
It is thinner and less mineralized compared to permanent teeth.
Describe the color of primary teeth.
Primary teeth are whiter in color compared to permanent teeth.
What is the root-to-crown ratio (R/C) in primary incisors?
Approximately 2:1, meaning the root is twice the length of the crown.
What is a notable feature of primary maxillary central incisors?
Prominent anatomical features on the lingual aspect.
How do primary mandibular incisors’ anatomical features compare?
Less distinct and less prominent.
What is a distinguishing feature of primary maxillary canines?
Prominent marginal and palatal ridges with distinct fossae.
What is unique about the crown shape of primary molars?
They have a prominent mesiobuccal cervical ridge.
How does the occlusal table of primary molars differ?
Narrower occlusal table with short, flat cusps.
What distinguishes primary first molars?
They do not resemble any other tooth and have unique features like an overdeveloped mesial marginal ridge.
How are primary second molars different from permanent first molars?
They resemble permanent first molars but are smaller in size.
What is a common characteristic of primary teeth roots?
Long and slender with a bend in the apical third towards the labial aspect.
Why are primary teeth more prone to pulp exposure during cavity preparation?
Thinner enamel and dentin layers.
How does the symmetry of primary maxillary central incisors compare?
They are more symmetrical than the lateral incisors.
What is the relationship between the MD and FL dimensions in primary maxillary canines?
MD dimension is greater than FL dimension.
What is the oblique ridge characteristic in primary maxillary second molars?
Straighter in course compared to permanent first molars.
How many cusps does a primary mandibular second molar have?
Five cusps.
What is the relationship between MD and FL dimensions in primary mandibular first molars?
MD > FL dimension.
How do primary mandibular canines’ features compare to maxillary canines?
Features are less prominent and barely discernible.
What is the importance of primary teeth in speech?
Essential for forming clear speech, especially dentolabial consonants.
How does the cingulum of primary anterior teeth compare to permanent teeth?
More prominent, covering 1/3 of the crown.
What is the function of the primary molars’ widely spread roots?
Provide space for the development of succedaneous teeth.
What is unique about the crown outline of primary mandibular first molars?
It is mesially straight and more convex distally.
