Most Common Missing Tooth — 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: E — Third molar
Third molars are by far the most commonly congenitally absent permanent teeth, with agenesis rates of 10-35% depending on the population studied. When excluding third molars, the most commonly absent permanent teeth are mandibular second premolars, followed by maxillary lateral incisors, then maxillary second premolars. Agenesis of maxillary central incisors, canines, and first molars is extremely rare and may indicate a syndromic condition.
Reference: Proffit – Contemporary Orthodontics, 6th ed., 2019