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Cusp of Carabelli — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateDental Anatomy & OcclusionCusp of CarabelliNDEB AFK

The mesiolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar is referred to as the 'cusp of Carabelli' when an accessory cusp is present. On which surface of the tooth is the cusp of Carabelli located?

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Correct answer: E — Palatal (lingual) surface of the mesiopalatal cusp

The cusp of Carabelli (Carabelli trait) is an accessory cusp located on the palatal (lingual) surface of the mesiopalatal (mesiolingual) cusp of the maxillary first molar. It varies from a small pit or groove to a fully formed fifth cusp. It is a heritable trait found more commonly in individuals of European descent. The mesiopalatal cusp itself is the largest cusp of the maxillary first molar and the primary supporting cusp.

Reference: Ash – Wheeler's Dental Anatomy, Physiology, and Occlusion, 11th ed., 2020