Differences Between Primary And Permanent Dentition

Differences Between Primary And Permanent Dentition

Morphologic differences exist between the primary and the permanent dentitions, both in terms of the size of the teeth and in their general external and internal design.

These differences may be categorized as follows:

1. Difference in the number
2. Difference in colour
3. Difference in the size
4. Difference in the shape
5. Difference in contact areas
6. Difference in pulp
7. Difference in roots
8. Histological difference
9. Difference in the mineral content
10. Differences in development of teeth

Read And Learn More: Oral Anatomy Notes

 

Differences Between Primary And Permanent Dentition Synopsis

There are lesser number of teeth in the primary dentition than the permanent dentition with the number being 20 in primary and 32 in the permanent dentition.

The primary teeth are whiter in colour and smaller in size. The contact areas in the primary teeth are broader and located more gingivally than the contact areas in the permanent teeth which are points and located occlusally. The roots of primary teeth are narrower and undergo physiologic resorption. The enamel is thinner and less mineralized in the primary teeth. The time taken for development of the primary teeth is less than the time taken for the permanent teeth.