Which statement is true about eruption ages of lateral incisors?

Study for the Pediatric Dentistry II Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which statement is true about eruption ages of lateral incisors?

Explanation:
Understanding eruption timing in the primary dentition is essential. Lateral incisors show a clear pattern: the maxillary lateral incisor tends to erupt a bit earlier than its mandibular counterpart. The typical ages—maxillary lateral around 9 to 13 months versus mandibular lateral around 10 to 16 months—reflect this sequence, with the upper tooth appearing first. This aligns with the general observation that the maxilla often allows slightly earlier eruption for several anterior teeth, though individual variation is normal. The other statements conflict with the observed pattern: lateral incisors do not erupt at exactly the same time, they do not erupt after canines in the primary dentition, and they do not erupt later than the mandibular lateral incisors.

Understanding eruption timing in the primary dentition is essential. Lateral incisors show a clear pattern: the maxillary lateral incisor tends to erupt a bit earlier than its mandibular counterpart. The typical ages—maxillary lateral around 9 to 13 months versus mandibular lateral around 10 to 16 months—reflect this sequence, with the upper tooth appearing first. This aligns with the general observation that the maxilla often allows slightly earlier eruption for several anterior teeth, though individual variation is normal. The other statements conflict with the observed pattern: lateral incisors do not erupt at exactly the same time, they do not erupt after canines in the primary dentition, and they do not erupt later than the mandibular lateral incisors.