title: Variation in buccal surface morphology of deciduous first molars.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The buccal bulge of the deciduous first molars has always been a restorative challenge to the pediatric dentist. Morphologically it may vary from a slight prominence to a well-developed cusp-like structure.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study was conducted to determine the variable buccal surface morphology of deciduous first molar and its clinical relevance.
  
  
  METHODS
  A prospective study was conducted whereby 2016 patients visiting the outpatient clinic of dental hospital over 1 year were evaluated. Any variation in buccal surface morphology of the deciduous first molars was recorded photographically or by replicating in dental stone.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Varied morphological patterns on buccal surface were observed for which a new classification scheme has been proposed.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The surface morphology of deciduous teeth crowns must be studied carefully as it may be indicative of pulpal extensions and accessory roots, requiring consideration during restorative treatment planning.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatric Dentistry, S.K.S.S. Dental College, Sarabha, Ludhiana, India. dr_maulisimrat@yahoo.com
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Simratvir
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Moghe
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Singh
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Dhillon
mesh_terms: D063405:Anatomic Variation; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D006801:Humans; D003765:Models, Dental; D008963:Molar / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D023861:Photography, Dental; D011446:Prospective Studies; D019237:Tooth Cervix / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D019228:Tooth Crown / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014094:Tooth, Deciduous / Q000033:anatomy & histology*