Dental Anatomy and Morphology Of Permanent Molars
There are 12 permanent molars — 6 maxillary and 6 mandibular. They are the first, second and third molar in each quadrant, and the 6th, 7th and 8th teeth from the midline. Using the International Numbering System (the formula of Viohla) the maxillary molars are 16, 17, 18; 26, 27, 28. The mandibular molars are 36, 37, 38; 46, 47, 48.
The maxillary first molars are the largest and the strongest teeth in each arch. The second molars are distal to the first molars. The third molar is the last tooth in the arch, its distal surface is not in contact with any other tooth.
Functions Of Molars
The permanent premolars play a major role in the mastication of food — chewing and grinding; maintain the vertical dimension of the face; important in maintaining continuity within the dental arches, thus keeping other teeth in proper alignment; they have a role in aesthetics by keeping the cheeks normally full or supported, and maintain the occlusal vertical dimension.
