A child is missing teeth in a pattern similar to the father's. X-linked dominant inheritance for Duchenne syndrome is mentioned. Which teeth are MOST commonly congenitally missing?

Correct answer: D. #7 and #10 (maxillary lateral incisors)

• A. Maxillary central incisors are rarely congenitally missing — they are one of the LEAST commonly absent permanent teeth.
• B. Mandibular second premolars (#20 and #29) are actually the MOST common congenitally missing teeth overall, but among anterior/visible teeth, maxillary lateral incisors are classically cited as the most commonly missing. Given the clinical presentation (visible missing teeth similar to father), lateral incisors fit best.
• C. Maxillary canines are very rarely congenitally absent — they are most often impacted, not missing.
• D. MAXILLARY LATERAL INCISORS (#7 and #10) are the MOST COMMONLY congenitally missing teeth after the mandibular second premolars. Congenital absence of maxillary lateral incisors (agenesis) has a strong genetic component (autosomal dominant with variable penetrance) — hence the father and child sharing the same pattern. This is the classic boards answer.