Retromolar Pad — NDEB AFK MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: A — A pear-shaped soft tissue pad of dense fibrous connective tissue and glandular tissue distal to the mandibular third molar
The retromolar pad is a pear-shaped mound of soft tissue posterior to the mandibular third molar composed of dense fibrous tissue, glandular tissue (mucous glands), fibres of the buccinator, temporalis tendon, pterygomandibular raphe, and superior pharyngeal constrictor. In complete denture prosthodontics, it serves as a key landmark for determining the posterior extension of the mandibular denture base — the denture should cover approximately two-thirds of the retromolar pad.
Reference: Zarb – Prosthodontic Treatment for Edentulous Patients, 13th ed., 2013