Self-Protective Features of Dentition

What principle describes the relationship between the shape and function of the dentition?

• Function dictates esthetics

• Form follows function

• Balance before structure

• Shape leads form

What forms as teeth align mesially and distally in the arch?

• Marginal ridges

• Interdental embrasures

• Lingual curvature

• Cuspal inclinations

What direction do maxillary incisor roots typically incline?

• Straight downward

• Labially

• Lingually

• Buccally

What teeth show the greatest faciolingual inclination?

• Mandibular molars

• Maxillary canines

• Maxillary incisors

• Mandibular premolars

What feature of the crown helps deflect food away from the gingiva?

• Flat facial surfaces

• Height of contour

• Pointed cusp tips

• Broad contact area

What contributes to the continuity of forms in dental arches?

• Separate tooth movements

• Random cusp arrangement

• Central fossae, embrasures, and cusp tips

• Irregular crown inclinations

What space provides a pathway for food during chewing?

• Central fossa

• Occlusal table

• Interproximal space

• Buccal sulcus

Which condition can result from open contact areas and uneven ridge height?

• Tooth fracture

• Gum hypertrophy

• Food impaction

• Tongue thrusting

Which of the following is true about the CEJ of adjacent teeth?

• They are at different heights

• They must be rounded

• They are usually at the same level

• They are more apical than root tips

What is the overall role of the self-protective features of the dentition?

• Support the lips and cheeks

• Aesthetic contouring

• Protect the periodontium and maintain function

• Enhance speech clarity