National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) Practice Exam

If a patient loses a first molar before age 11, does the overbite increase?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only if the second molar has not erupted

4. Only in cases of severe crowding

The correct answer is: No

If a patient loses a first molar before age 11, the overbite would not increase. This is because the loss of a first molar does not directly impact the overbite. The overbite is determined by the natural growth and development of the teeth and jaws, and the loss of a first molar at this age would not significantly alter that natural process. Option A Yes - this option is incorrect because, as mentioned, the loss of a first molar at this age does not lead to an increase in overbite. Option C: Only if the second molar has not erupted - this option is also incorrect because, although the second molar plays a role in overbite, its eruption alone would not cause a significant increase in the overbite. Option D: Only in cases of severe crowding - this option is incorrect because crowding may contribute to changes in overbite