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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

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Exp 50 years

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Why Is There A Difference In The Number Of Roots In Teeth ?

why does the mandibular 1st molar have 2 roots and the maxillary 1st molar have 3 roots Why does the upper first molar have 3 roots and the lower first molar have two? I am a dental student and there has to be a reason for this and I want to know why?
Mon, 15 Apr 2013
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Dentist,  's  Response
Dear friend.

Thanks for sharing your concern.

maxillary first molar has three roots because of the nature of maxillary bone,which is porous.

At the same time the roots are long and rounded too in comparison to mandibular molar for better anchorage and adequate support.

mandibular bone itself is thick and two roots are well placed mesially and distally in dense mandibular bone to give them a firm support and strength.

hope it helps.

any other reason, you have will be appreciated.

thanks.

take care.
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Dentist, Endodontics ,  Dr. Manisha Rao's  Response
Hi, the possible reason for mandibular molar having 2 roots as compared to the maxillary molars could be the density of mandible. As you must be knowing mandible is much more dense than maxilla. Hence maxillary molars have 3 roots to give them a firm support and strength in the porous bone. Mandibular molars do not require that kind of strength because mandible is itself very thick.
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Why Is There A Difference In The Number Of Roots In Teeth ?

Dear friend. Thanks for sharing your concern. maxillary first molar has three roots because of the nature of maxillary bone,which is porous. At the same time the roots are long and rounded too in comparison to mandibular molar for better anchorage and adequate support. mandibular bone itself is thick and two roots are well placed mesially and distally in dense mandibular bone to give them a firm support and strength. hope it helps. any other reason, you have will be appreciated. thanks. take care.