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Root Concavity Maxillary Premolar — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModeratePeriodontologyRoot Concavity Maxillary PremolarNDEB AFK

Which of the following permanent teeth most commonly has a mesial concavity (fluting) on the root that complicates periodontal instrumentation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: BMaxillary first premolar

The maxillary first premolar commonly has a mesial concavity (furcation fluting or developmental groove/depression) on the root surface, especially when two roots are present. This concavity is often deep (0.5-1.0 mm), creating a challenging area for periodontal instrumentation (difficult to access with curettes) and predisposing to localised attachment loss and furcation involvement. Similar root concavities are found on the mesial surfaces of mandibular first molars and the distal surfaces of mandibular second premolars.

Reference: Newman – Newman and Carranza's Clinical Periodontology, 13th ed., 2019