Mesiodistal Crown Width — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Mandibular first molar
The mandibular first molar has the greatest average mesiodistal crown dimension in the permanent dentition, conventionally about 11 mm, although absolute measurements vary with sex and population. The maxillary first molar is slightly narrower mesiodistally but has a particularly large buccolingual dimension, which makes option A the principal distractor. The maxillary central incisor is the widest anterior tooth mesiodistally but is narrower than either first molar. The mandibular and maxillary canines are also substantially narrower mesiodistally. Therefore, the mandibular first molar is the single best answer.
Reference: Uslu-Akcam O, Yıldız R. Mesiodistal and buccolingual crown diameters of permanent teeth. BMC Oral Health. 2025;25:870. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40450299/