Major Contrasts Between Primary and Permanent Teeth

These flashcards cover the major contrasts between primary and permanent teeth, including anatomical differences and characteristics.

Primary Teeth

Also known as deciduous teeth; the first set of teeth that are typically whiter and less pigmented than permanent teeth.

Permanent Teeth

The second set of teeth that replace primary teeth; typically have more color variation and are larger.

Cervical Ridge

A prominent ridge on the enamel of primary teeth, particularly noticeable on the anterior teeth.

Primary Molars

Deciduous molars that have longer, more slender roots and pronounced cervical ridges compared to permanent molars.

Maxillary Deciduous 1st Molar

A primary molar that resembles the crown of the first permanent premolar but has three well-defined roots.

Mandibular Deciduous 1st Molar

A primary molar with a unique crown form, having two roots that are M (mesial) and D (distal).

Pulp Chambers

The hollow part of the tooth where the pulp lies; relatively larger in primary teeth, with pulp horns closer to the outer surface.

Crown

The visible part of the tooth above the gum line; primary anterior crowns are wider mesiodistally (MD) compared to permanent anterior teeth.

Roots of Primary Molars

Compared to their permanent counterparts, primary molar roots are longer, slender, and flare more.

Occlusal Surfaces

The chewing surfaces of teeth; primary molar occlusal surfaces are narrower above cervical curvatures compared to permanent molars.