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Quizzes > Health & Medicine

How Many Nonsuccedaneous Teeth Are in Adult Dentition?

Quick, free nonsuccedaneous teeth quiz with instant results and explanations.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Bumc DallasUpdated Aug 23, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art diagram of nonsuccedaneous adult teeth under quiz title on coral background

This quiz helps you check nonsuccedaneous teeth in adult dentition - identify which teeth they are and the total count - with instant scoring. Keep building your knowledge with our dental anatomy quiz, review key terms in a restorative dentistry terminology quiz, or try a dental nursing knowledge test.

What defines a nonsuccedaneous tooth?
A supernumerary tooth
A permanent tooth that does not replace a deciduous tooth
A succedaneous tooth
A primary tooth
Nonsuccedaneous teeth develop without replacing any primary tooth, which distinguishes them from succedaneous teeth. They are formed independently of deciduous predecessors and erupt into spaces posterior to the primary dentition. In humans, the permanent molars are the classic nonsuccedaneous teeth. For more details on tooth succession, see .
How many permanent molars are present in adult dentition?
4
8
12
16
There are three permanent molars in each quadrant, totaling 12 in the adult mouth. These do not replace primary teeth and are nonsuccedaneous. The first molars erupt around age six, followed by second and third molars. See eruption timelines at .
Which is the first permanent tooth to erupt?
Maxillary central incisor
Mandibular central incisor
Mandibular first molar
Maxillary first premolar
The mandibular first molar is the first permanent tooth to emerge, typically around age six. It is nonsuccedaneous since it does not replace a primary tooth. This molar is therefore often called the "six-year molar." For eruption schedules, visit .
At what age does the third molar typically erupt?
6 to 7 years
14 to 16 years
17 to 21 years
11 to 13 years
Third molars, also called wisdom teeth, normally erupt between ages 17 and 21. Their eruption is highly variable and sometimes they never fully erupt or remain impacted. They are the last nonsuccedaneous teeth to emerge. See clinical variations at .
In each quadrant, how many nonsuccedaneous teeth are present?
3
2
1
4
Each quadrant of the adult dentition contains three nonsuccedaneous teeth: the first, second, and third molars. These molars do not replace any primary teeth. Succedaneous teeth, by contrast, number five per quadrant. More on dental counts at .
Which of the following is a nonsuccedaneous tooth?
Mandibular first premolar
Mandibular lateral incisor
Maxillary second molar
Maxillary canine
The maxillary second molar is a permanent molar and therefore nonsuccedaneous, as it does not replace a deciduous tooth. Incisors, canines, and premolars are succedaneous because they replace primary teeth. For tooth classification, see .
Mixed dentition begins with eruption of which permanent tooth?
Primary canine
Primary molar
Permanent first molar
Permanent central incisor
Mixed dentition starts when the permanent first molar erupts, around age six, while many primary teeth are still present. This period continues until all primary teeth are replaced. The first molar is nonsuccedaneous, entering posterior to primary teeth. More on mixed dentition at .
Which permanent molar is also known as the "six-year molar"?
Mandibular first molar
Mandibular second molar
Maxillary second molar
Maxillary first molar
The mandibular first molar erupts at about six years of age, earning it the nickname "six-year molar." It does not replace a baby tooth and is nonsuccedaneous. Its early eruption marks the start of mixed dentition. See eruption facts at .
The third molar is commonly known as:
Baby molar
Wisdom tooth
Succedaneous molar
Deciduous molar
Third molars are colloquially called wisdom teeth because they erupt during late adolescence or early adulthood. They are nonsuccedaneous and may be impacted due to lack of space. Many people have them removed prophylactically. For more, visit .
Which tooth is succedaneous?
Maxillary second molar
Permanent first molar
Permanent canine
Mandibular third molar
Succedaneous teeth are permanent teeth that replace primary teeth. The permanent canine succeeds the primary canine. Molars have no primary predecessors and are nonsuccedaneous. For tooth succession details, see .
Which maxillary molar typically has three distinct roots?
Third molar
Second molar
None of the above
First molar
The maxillary first molar usually has three separate roots: two buccal and one palatal. The second molar may have fused roots, and the third molar is highly variable. Root anatomy is key in endodontics. For root morphology, see .
Which characteristic ridge is found on the maxillary first molar?
Buccal ridge
Medial ridge
Oblique ridge
Transverse ridge
The oblique ridge is unique to maxillary molars and runs from the mesiolingual cusp to the distobuccal cusp. It contributes to the characteristic occlusal anatomy of the maxillary first molar. It is absent on mandibular molars. More at .
Succedaneous teeth replace which of the following?
Permanent teeth
Supernumerary teeth
Primary teeth
No teeth
Succedaneous teeth are permanent teeth that develop to replace deciduous (primary) teeth. All incisors, canines, and premolars are succedaneous, while molars are nonsuccedaneous. This classification is fundamental in pediatric dentistry. For more, see .
How many roots does a mandibular first molar usually have?
Four
Three
One
Two
The mandibular first molar typically has two roots: one mesial and one distal. Each root houses its own canal system. Occasionally a third root may be present, but this is rare. For root variations, visit .
Which teeth erupt at around 12 to 13 years of age?
Mandibular first molars
Maxillary second molars
Permanent central incisors
Primary canines
Maxillary and mandibular second molars usually erupt between ages 12 and 13. They follow the first molars and premolars in the eruption sequence. These are also nonsuccedaneous. For eruption chronology, see .
What is the adult permanent dental formula per quadrant?
1 incisor, 1 canine, 1 premolar, 1 molar
2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 3 molars
3 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 3 molars
2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 2 molars
The permanent dental formula per quadrant is 2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, and 3 molars, totaling 16 teeth per arch. Molars are nonsuccedaneous, while the other types replace primary teeth. This formula is standard in human dental anatomy. Reference: .
The cusp of Carabelli is located on which cusp of the maxillary first molar?
Mesiobuccal cusp
Distobuccal cusp
Mesiolingual cusp
Distolingual cusp
The cusp of Carabelli is an accessory tubercle found on the mesiolingual surface of the maxillary first molar. It varies in size and presence among individuals. This feature is clinically significant in identification and occlusal morphology. See details at .
What is the typical occlusal outline shape of a maxillary first molar?
Pentagon
Triangular
Square
Rhomboid
Maxillary first molars exhibit a rhomboid occlusal outline, with opposite sides parallel and two acute and two obtuse angles. This distinguishes them from mandibular molars, which have more rectangular or square outlines. For occlusal morphology, see .
How many cusps are found on the mandibular first molar?
Four
Five
Six
Three
The mandibular first molar normally has five cusps: three buccal (mesiobuccal, distobuccal, distal) and two lingual (mesiolingual, distolingual). This cusp arrangement is distinctive among molars. For more on cusp patterns, see .
Which root of the maxillary first molar commonly contains two canals?
Distobuccal root
Mesiobuccal root
Palatal root
Mesial root
The mesiobuccal root of the maxillary first molar often contains two separate canals (MB1 and MB2). Locating and treating both canals is crucial for endodontic success. The distobuccal and palatal roots typically have one canal each. For endodontic anatomy, see .
How many developmental lobes form the mandibular second molar?
Three
Five
Six
Four
The mandibular second molar typically develops from four lobes, corresponding to its four cusps (two buccal, two lingual). This distinguishes it from the first molar, which has five lobes. Lobe development affects occlusal groove patterns. More at .
At what age does the second molar erupt in the permanent dentition?
12 to 13 years
10 to 12 years
17 to 21 years
6 to 7 years
Permanent second molars typically erupt between ages 12 and 13 years. They follow the first molars and replace no primary predecessors. Proper timing is important in orthodontic planning. See eruption data at .
Which molar often exhibits a heart-shaped occlusal pattern when three cusps are present?
Mandibular first molar
Mandibular second molar
Maxillary first molar
Maxillary second molar
The three-cusp variant of the mandibular second molar shows a heart-shaped occlusal pattern due to a missing distobuccal cusp. The groove arrangement accentuates this shape. This variation affects chewing efficiency. Further reading at .
What is the permanent dental formula per quadrant?
1 incisor, 1 canine, 1 premolar, 1 molar
3 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 3 molars
2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 3 molars
2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, 2 molars
The adult formula per quadrant is 2 incisors, 1 canine, 2 premolars, and 3 molars. This reflects the full permanent dentition without primary teeth. It is fundamental in dental charting. For reference, see .
At what age is root completion of the maxillary first molar usually achieved?
17 to 21 years
6 to 7 years
12 to 13 years
9 to 10 years
Root completion of the maxillary first molar typically occurs between 9 and 10 years of age. This follows its crown completion and eruption at about 6 years. Timing of root maturation is important in pediatric endodontics. More at .
How many root canals are typically found in a mandibular first molar?
Four
Five
Two
Three
Mandibular first molars most commonly have three canals: two in the mesial root and one in the distal root. Variations may include an extra distal canal, but these are less common. Canal anatomy is critical for successful root canal therapy. See .
Which tooth has the greatest mesiodistal dimension of any permanent tooth?
Mandibular first molar
Maxillary first molar
Maxillary second molar
Mandibular second molar
The mandibular first molar has the greatest mesiodistal width among all permanent teeth, reflecting its large occlusal table. This dimension aids in grinding functions. Recognizing this helps in prosthetic and orthodontic planning. More at .
The oblique ridge of a maxillary first molar connects which two cusps?
Mesiobuccal and distolingual cusps
Mesiolingual and distobuccal cusps
Mesiolingual and distolingual cusps
Mesiobuccal and distobuccal cusps
On the maxillary first molar, the oblique ridge runs from the mesiolingual cusp to the distobuccal cusp. This unique ridge is absent on mandibular molars and second maxillary molars. It is an important landmark for occlusal morphology. Reference: .
The accessory cusp of Carabelli is found on which surface of the maxillary first molar?
Occlusal surface of the distolingual cusp
Lingual surface of the mesiolingual cusp
Buccal surface of the distobuccal cusp
Distal fossa
The cusp of Carabelli appears as an extra tubercle on the lingual surface of the mesiolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar. It varies in expression among individuals. This feature is used in forensic anthropology and dental morphology studies. More at .
Premolars are classified as which type of teeth?
Supernumerary
Congenital
Nonsuccedaneous
Succedaneous
Premolars replace primary molars and are thus succedaneous teeth. Unlike molars, they succeed deciduous predecessors. This distinction is essential in developmental dental anatomy. For more, see .
Which root of the maxillary first molar is the longest?
Mesial root
Distobuccal root
Mesiobuccal root
Palatal root
The palatal root of the maxillary first molar is the longest and strongest, extending deeply into the maxilla. The buccal roots are shorter and more divergent. Root length impacts extraction and endodontic procedures. See morphology at .
At what age does mineralization of the mandibular second molar begin?
30 months
Birth
6 years
7 years
Mineralization of the mandibular second molar begins at approximately 30 months of age. This follows the first molar, which begins around birth. Understanding mineralization timelines aids in radiographic age estimation. More at .
The cusp of Carabelli is considered a derivative of which primary cusp?
Mesiobuccal cusp
Mesiolingual cusp
Distobuccal cusp
Distolingual cusp
The cusp of Carabelli represents an additional lobe or tubercle associated with the mesiolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar. It may be expressed as a pit, groove, or full cusp. This variation reflects complex genetic and developmental factors. For developmental anatomy, see .
On the maxillary first molar, which root has the greatest diameter?
Distobuccal root
Mesiobuccal root
Mesial root
Palatal root
The palatal root of the maxillary first molar not only is the longest but also has the greatest diameter, providing strong anchorage. The buccal roots are thinner and sometimes fused. Root diameter influences endodontic instrumentation. More at .
The groove pattern of a three-cusp mandibular second molar most closely resembles which letter?
X
H
U
Y
A three-cusp mandibular second molar exhibits a Y-shaped groove pattern, due to the central groove and two distinctive buccal grooves. The two-cusp form shows a U or H pattern instead. This variation is key in tooth identification. Reference: .
In maxillary second molars, which roots are most likely to be fused?
Mesiobuccal and palatal roots
All three remain separate
Mesiobuccal and distobuccal roots
Distobuccal and palatal roots
Maxillary second molars often present with fused buccal roots (mesiobuccal and distobuccal), resulting in a single buccal root. The palatal root typically remains separate. This fusion affects extraction and endodontic access. See morphology at .
Which molar most frequently exhibits a distolingual groove on the crown?
Maxillary first molar
Mandibular first molar
Maxillary second molar
Mandibular second molar
The mandibular first molar commonly shows a pronounced distolingual groove on its crown, separating the distal and lingual cusps. This groove can be a plaque trap and requires careful cleaning. Understanding these grooves informs prophylaxis. More at .
On which molars is the oblique ridge absent?
Third molars
Maxillary second molars
Maxillary first molars
Mandibular molars
The oblique ridge is a distinctive feature of maxillary first and second molars but is absent on mandibular molars. It runs from the mesiolingual cusp to the distobuccal cusp on maxillary teeth. This ridge is a key occlusal landmark. See ridge morphology at .
What is the most common canal configuration in the mesiobuccal root of the maxillary first molar?
One canal
Four canals
Three canals
Two canals
The mesiobuccal root of the maxillary first molar most often contains two canals, known as MB1 and MB2. Locating both is crucial for thorough endodontic debridement. Failure to treat MB2 leads to treatment failure. For endodontic protocols, see .
Which permanent molar shows the greatest variability in crown morphology?
Second molar
None; all are similar
Third molar
First molar
Third molars exhibit the most variability in crown shape, size, and number of cusps among all permanent teeth. Their development is highly influenced by genetics and space availability. This variability contributes to frequent impaction and extraction. More at .
The mandibular third molar most commonly erupts at which angle?
Mesioangular
Horizontal
Distoangular
Vertical
Impacted mandibular third molars often present with a mesioangular orientation, tilting toward the front of the mouth. This is the most common impaction type and influences surgical approach. Vertical and distoangular patterns are less frequent. For impaction classification, see .
Which molar root may be superimposed over the maxillary sinus on a periapical radiograph?
Distal root of the mandibular second molar
Mesiobuccal root of the maxillary first molar
Distobuccal root of the maxillary first molar
Palatal root of the maxillary first molar
The palatal root of the maxillary first molar often extends posteriorly and superiorly, lying close to or within the maxillary sinus floor. On periapical films, it may appear superimposed over the sinus. Recognizing this aids in correct diagnosis of sinus involvement. For imaging correlations, see .
The distal contact area of the maxillary first molar is with which tooth?
Maxillary second premolar
Mandibular first molar
Maxillary second molar
Maxillary first premolar
The distal contact area of the maxillary first molar is located on the mesial surface of the maxillary second molar. Proper contact points are essential for proximal stability and periodontal health. Misalignment can lead to food impaction. See proximal contacts at .
Which developmental groove separates the buccal cusps on a mandibular first molar?
Lingual groove
Central groove
Buccal groove
Secondary groove
The buccal groove runs between the mesiobuccal and distobuccal cusps on the buccal surface of the mandibular first molar. It is a key landmark for identifying this tooth and can be prone to caries. The central groove runs M-D across the occlusal table. See groove anatomy at .
Which surface of the maxillary first molar root trunk is the shortest?
Lingual
Distal
Buccal
Mesial
On the maxillary first molar, the distal root trunk is shorter than the mesial and buccal trunk lengths, bringing the bifurcation or trifurcation closer to the cervical line distally. This anatomy impacts periodontal probing and root resection. More details at .
How many triangular ridges converge in the central fossa of a maxillary first molar?
Two
One
Four
Three
The central fossa of a maxillary first molar is formed by the convergence of two triangular ridges: one from the mesiolingual cusp and one from the mesiobuccal cusp. These ridges channel food and help in occlusal function. Recognizing fossa anatomy aids in cavity preparation. See fossa morphology at .
Which molar cusp is least likely to make occlusal contact in normal function?
Mesiolingual cusp of maxillary first molar
Distolingual cusp of maxillary first molar
Mesiobuccal cusp of maxillary first molar
Distobuccal cusp of maxillary first molar
The distolingual cusp of the maxillary first molar is the smallest and usually does not occlude with any mandibular cusp in normal intercuspation. Its lack of contact is important in wear patterns. This cusp is sometimes called a nonworking cusp. More at .
Which molar exhibits a prominent buccal cervical ridge on its buccal surface?
Mandibular second molar
Mandibular first molar
Maxillary first molar
Maxillary second molar
The mandibular first molar has a pronounced buccal cervical ridge, particularly on the mesiobuccal cusp, which contributes to its convex appearance at the cervical third. This ridge is a helpful identification feature. See crown contour at .
Which molar commonly presents a C-shaped canal configuration?
Maxillary second molar
Maxillary first molar
Mandibular second molar
Mandibular first molar
The C-shaped canal is most frequently found in the mandibular second molar, particularly in Asian populations. This configuration arises from fusion of roots and presents a continuous C-shaped canal. It poses challenges in endodontic cleaning and shaping. For canal variations, see .
Cellular cementum is thickest in which region of a molar root?
Middle third
Apical third
Cervical third
On the crown
Cellular cementum is most abundant in the apical third of the root, where it allows for adaptive changes and repair. The cervical third mostly consists of acellular cementum that provides primary attachment. This distribution is crucial for periodontal regeneration. More at .
Which gene is critically involved in regulating molar cusp patterning during development?
FGF8
MSX1
BMP2
WNT3
MSX1 is a homeobox gene that plays a key role in tooth initiation and cusp patterning, particularly in molar development. Mutations in MSX1 can lead to hypodontia, including molar agenesis. This gene interacts with multiple signaling pathways. For genetic regulation, see .
In Angle's Class II, division 1 malocclusion, how is the molar relationship described?
Mandibular first molar is ahead of maxillary first molar
Maxillary first molar's mesiobuccal cusp is posterior to mandibular first molar's mesiobuccal groove
Second molar relationship determined instead
Maxillary first molar's mesiobuccal cusp is anterior to mandibular first molar's mesiobuccal groove
In Angle's Class II, division 1, the mesiobuccal cusp of the maxillary first molar is positioned anterior to the mesiobuccal groove of the mandibular first molar. This malocclusion often presents with proclined upper incisors. Molar relationship is central to Angle's classification. For orthodontic criteria, see .
Occlusal vertical dimension changes with age are primarily due to:
Alveolar growth
Root resorption
Occlusal wear
Cementum deposition
As individuals age, occlusal vertical dimension decreases mainly because of tooth wear (attrition) on occlusal surfaces, including molars. Alveolar growth is minimal in adults, and cementum deposition does not significantly affect occlusal height. Monitoring VDO is critical in prosthodontics. See .
Accessory third molars located buccal to the maxillary molars are termed:
Paramolars
Distomolars
Perimolars
Mesiodens
Paramolars are supernumerary teeth that erupt buccally or lingually to premolars and molars, especially in the maxillary arch. They differ from distomolars, which are located distal to third molars. Recognition prevents surgical surprises. For supernumerary classifications, see .
On a periapical radiograph, which landmark often overlaps the palatal root of the maxillary first molar?
Inferior nasal concha
Zygomatic process of the maxilla
Incisive foramen
Mandibular canal
The zygomatic process of the maxilla frequently projects over the palatal root area of the maxillary first molar in periapical radiographs, creating a radiopaque overlap. This landmark must be distinguished from pathology. Proper angulation reduces superimposition. See radiographic landmarks at .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Nonsuccedaneous Teeth -

    Accurately identify which permanent teeth are nonsuccedaneous based on their developmental characteristics within the adult dentition.

  2. Count Nonsuccedaneous Teeth -

    Determine how many nonsuccedaneous teeth are there in the adult dentition to build a precise foundation for dental anatomy knowledge.

  3. Classify Adult Dentition Teeth -

    Distinguish between succedaneous and nonsuccedaneous adult dentition teeth to enhance your classification skills.

  4. Analyze Tooth Development Stages -

    Analyze the developmental stages of permanent molars and other nonsuccedaneous teeth to understand their formation timeline.

  5. Apply Knowledge in Exam Simulation -

    Apply your understanding of nonsuccedaneous teeth in a scored quiz format to boost confidence for Gulf Dentistry and dental exam scenarios.

  6. Enhance Dental Anatomy Recall -

    Strengthen retention of key dental anatomy concepts by reviewing tooth classifications and counts within the adult dentition.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Definition and classification -

    Nonsuccedaneous teeth are permanent teeth that do not replace deciduous predecessors, most notably the molars, per Wheeler's Dental Anatomy at the University of Washington. A handy mnemonic is "No Succession, Molar Session" to recall that molars are nonsuccedaneous in the adult dentition.

  2. Total count in adult dentition -

    There are 12 nonsuccedaneous teeth in the adult dentition - three molars in each quadrant - making up the key posterior support as noted by the American Dental Association. Asking "how many nonsuccedaneous teeth are there in the adult dentition?" should immediately bring you to the magic number 12.

  3. Eruption chronology -

    Permanent first molars erupt around age 6 - 7, second molars at 11 - 13, and third molars (wisdom teeth) between 17 - 21, according to NCBI research. A timeline tip: just remember "6-11-17" as the sequential years for first, second, and third nonsuccedaneous molar eruptions.

  4. Morphology and roots -

    Maxillary nonsuccedaneous molars typically have three roots while mandibular ones usually have two, helping in identification and endodontic access, per the Journal of Endodontics. Use the "Max 3, Mand 2" rule to quickly differentiate their root numbers during radiographic review.

  5. Clinical considerations -

    Impaction is most common in third molars, affecting up to 70% of individuals, making knowledge of nonsuccedaneous third molar positioning crucial, as highlighted by the ADA. For a reminder of common impaction types, think "Vertical, Mesioangular, Horizontal, Distoangular" - VMHD - when you evaluate radiographs.

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