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Primary vs Permanent Enamel — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePaediatric DentistryPrimary vs Permanent EnamelNDEB AFK

Which of the following is the primary reason for the difference in caries pattern between the primary and permanent dentitions?

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Correct answer: B — Primary enamel has wider, more prominent prism structure and is more porous and less mineralised than permanent enamel

Primary enamel is thinner (approximately half the thickness of permanent enamel), more porous, less mineralised, has wider and more pronounced prism structure, and has a higher organic content compared to permanent enamel. These features make primary enamel more susceptible to acid dissolution and caries progression. Caries in primary teeth progresses more rapidly and reaches the pulp faster due to the thinner enamel and dentin layers and the relatively larger pulp chambers.

Reference: Dean – McDonald and Avery's Dentistry for the Child and Adolescent, 11th ed., 2021