Pediatric Dentistry · single question
A 5-year-old patient's radiographs show all first permanent molars fully erupted (maxillary and mandibular). How is this patient's development relative to chronological age?
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Correct answer: C. Advanced (ahead of chronological age)
First permanent molars (6-year molars) typically erupt at 6–7 years of age. If a 5-year-old already has all four first permanent molars fully erupted, their dental development is ADVANCED relative to chronological age. The dental age exceeds the chronological age — this is accelerated dental development.
- A. CORRECT. First permanent molars normally erupt at 6-7 years. Having them all erupted at age 5 = advanced dental development.
- B. Incorrect. Delayed would mean the first molars have NOT erupted by the expected age — the opposite situation.
- C. Incorrect. This is early for a 5-year-old — the norm is 6-7 years for first molar eruption.
- D. Incorrect. Misalignment is a separate issue — the question is specifically about developmental timing.
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