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Pediatric Dentistry · single question

What is the usual sequence of eruption of the primary dentition?

  1. B → A → C → D → E
  2. A → B → D → C → E
  3. A → B → C → D → E
  4. A → C → B → D → E
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Correct answer: B. A → B → D → C → E

  • A. ❌ Lateral incisors do not precede centrals.
  • B. ✅ CORRECT — Primary teeth erupt as central incisor (A) → lateral incisor (B) → FIRST MOLAR (D) → canine (C) → second molar (E). The first primary molar beats the canine to the arch; this is the sequence most commonly asked.
  • C. ❌ Strict alphabetical order (A-B-C-D-E) reverses the canine and first molar.
  • D. ❌ The canine does not erupt before the lateral incisor.

Note: Approximate ages: A 6–10 mo · B 9–16 mo · D 13–19 mo · C 16–23 mo · E 23–33 mo. All primary teeth in by ~3 years.

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