Arch Traits for Max. vs. Mand. Incisors

(Lingual view) Which arch’s incisors usually have more pronounced lingual fossae and sometimes a lingual pit?

Maxillary incisors; mandibular incisors have smoother lingual surfaces with little to no pits or grooves

(Proximal view) Which arch’s incisors have roots that are more round in cross-section, and which have ribbon-like roots?

Maxillary = rounder roots

Mandibular = ribbon-like roots (thin mesiodistally, wide faciolingually)

(Proximal view) Where are the incisal edges positioned relative to the root axis line in maxillary vs mandibular incisors?

Maxillary = usually labial to root axis line

Mandibular = usually lingual to root axis line

(Facial view) Which arch has crowns that are smaller and narrower mesiodistally compared to their length?

Mandibular incisors; Maxillary incisors appear wider mesiodistally

(Facial view) Which arch’s crowns have flatter mesial and distal outlines?

Mandibular incisors (flatter); Maxillary incisors (more rounded)

(Facial view) Which arch’s proximal contact points are closer to the incisal edge?

Mandibular incisors (closer to incisal); Maxillary incisors are more cervical, especially distal of maxillary laterals (in middle third)

(Incisal view) Which arch tends to have crowns wider faciolingually than mesiodistally?

Mandibular incisors; Maxillary central incisors are wider mesiodistally, and laterals are nearly equal.