Molar Morphology: An Evolutionary Change Ora Developmental Variation In North Indians

Abstract

The morphology of Lower first molar has shown considerable amount of variations, which may be attributed to evolutionary change or can be just a developmental anomaly. The changing Lower first molar morphology if established has definite clinical implications. Material and Methods: 150 boys and 150 girls were chosen as sample, impression recorded and models were prepared. The mandibular 1st molar morphology was analyzed using a magnifying lens and the sample was divided into 3 groups based on the cusp number on both sides of the arch. Results: In our sample population 67.73% had 5 cusped mandibular lst molars, 25.53% had 4 cusped mandibular 1st molars and 6.73% had bilateral asymmetry. Conclusion: more then 25% of the subjects had only 2 cusps and a single developmental groove on its buccal aspect suggesting that it may be an evolutionary change & It has definite clinical implication in the field of orthodontics.