Tooth Calcification Chronology — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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EasyAnatomy (Head & Neck)Tooth Calcification ChronologyMFDS Part 1

Under normal permanent tooth development, which tooth type begins crown mineralisation earliest?

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Correct answer: D — First permanent molar

The first permanent molar begins crown mineralisation earliest, at or shortly after birth. Comparative radiographic data place its initiation marginally before that of the permanent central incisor. Central incisors also begin mineralising near infancy and are therefore the most plausible distractor, but they are not normally first. Permanent canines begin later, while the premolars and second permanent molars commence mineralisation later still. Calcification chronology should not be confused with eruption chronology: the first permanent molars usually erupt at about 6 years, long after crown mineralisation has begun.

Reference: Nyström ME, Ranta HM, Peltola JS, Kataja JM. Timing of developmental stages in permanent mandibular teeth of Finns from birth to age 25. Acta Odontologica Scandinavica. 2007;65(1):36-43. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17354093/