Tooth function: practice question

A Dentistry question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

Dentistry · Tooth function

Sample item

Which tooth type is primarily adapted for grinding food?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Molar

Molars have broad occlusal surfaces with multiple cusps that are adapted for grinding food during mastication, whereas incisors cut and canines tear.

Option by option

  • A. Incisor

    Incisors are shaped mainly for cutting food.

  • B. Canine

    Canines are pointed and adapted for tearing.

  • C. Primary central incisor only

    A primary incisor is not the main grinding tooth type.

  • D. Molar (correct)

    Correct: molars are specialized for crushing and grinding.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More Dentistry questions

Questions about this Dentistry question

What is the answer to this Dentistry question?

The best answer is D, Molar. Molars have broad occlusal surfaces with multiple cusps that are adapted for grinding food during mastication, whereas incisors cut and canines tear.

Why is "Incisor" not the answer?

Incisors are shaped mainly for cutting food.

Why is "Canine" not the answer?

Canines are pointed and adapted for tearing.

Why is "Primary central incisor only" not the answer?

A primary incisor is not the main grinding tooth type.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Tooth function in Dentistry. The correct option holds because: Correct: molars are specialized for crushing and grinding.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Tooth function?

Learn the dental formula, eruption ages and tooth structure once, as tables. Then use the flashcards and the other Dentistry questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.