HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What do mamelons refer to in dental anatomy?

1. Patterns on the dental pulp

2. Rounded protuberances on a newly erupted incisor tooth

3. Structures that form the roots of teeth

4. The hardest part of a tooth

The correct answer is: Rounded protuberances on a newly erupted incisor tooth

Mamelons are specifically referred to as the rounded protuberances that are typically found on the incisal edges of newly erupted incisor teeth. These features occur as a result of the developmental pattern of the tooth and are usually more prominent in newly erupted teeth. Over time, as the tooth is subjected to normal wear and tear from functions such as biting and chewing, these mammelons may become flattened or worn down. Understanding the presence of mamelons is crucial in dental anatomy because they can reveal information about the tooth's eruption status and potential occlusal relationships.