Which jaw becomes BROADER when resorbed?

Correct answer: C. Mandible

• A. The mandible and maxilla resorb in OPPOSITE patterns. Only the mandible becomes broader (centripetal resorption from outer surface).
• B. The maxilla becomes NARROWER with resorption because it resorbs primarily from the CREST, with the basal bone remaining. The facial surface also resorbs, making the maxilla progressively narrower and less prominent.
• C. The MANDIBLE becomes BROADER (wider) when alveolar bone resorbs because resorption occurs from the OUTER (buccal/labial) cortical surface — the bone resorbs centripetally from outside in. As the outer surfaces resorb, the mandible appears broader and wider in cross-section. In contrast, the maxilla resorbs from the CREST inward, becoming NARROWER.
• D. The mandible does in fact become broader with resorption. 'Neither' is incorrect.