Which is the most common congenitally missing permanent tooth (excluding third molars)?

Correct answer: D. Third molars > mandibular second premolars > maxillary lateral incisors

• A. INCORRECT. This order is inaccurate. Maxillary lateral incisors are the second most common missing tooth, but they do not rank first overall (when third molars are included).
• B. INCORRECT. While maxillary lateral incisors and mandibular second premolars are both commonly congenitally missing, the correct order places third molars first when all teeth are considered.
• C. INCORRECT. Third molars are correctly first, but maxillary lateral incisors (not maxillary second premolars) rank second in the most widely cited order.
• D. CORRECT. The most frequently cited order of congenitally missing permanent teeth is: (1) Third molars (most common by far), (2) Mandibular second premolars, (3) Maxillary lateral incisors. When third molars are excluded, mandibular second premolars are most common, followed by maxillary lateral incisors. Note: Some sources place maxillary lateral incisors second — the source's answer (D) reflects the order including third molars.