What is the Difference Between Maxillary Central and Lateral Incisor?

The maxillary central and lateral incisors are both located in the upper jaw and are part of the row of incisors. They have some similarities, but there are key differences between them:

1. Size: Maxillary central incisors are larger than lateral incisors in both permanent and deciduous dentition.
2. Incisal Edge: The incisal edge of central incisors is straight when viewed from the buccal aspect, while the incisal edge of lateral incisors slopes toward the distal side, giving them a shorter distal crown height.
3. Crown Shape: The incisal outline of the maxillary central incisor is somewhat triangular, with the labial outline being broadly curved. The crown of the maxillary lateral incisor is also longer incisocervically, but it is considerably narrower mesiodistally than the crown of the maxillary central incisor.
4. Root Length: The maxillary lateral incisor root is longer than the central incisor root, resulting in a root that appears longer in proportion to the crown than on the central incisor.
5. Cervical Line Curvature: The curvature of the mesial cervical line of the maxillary central incisor extends incisally one-fourth or more of the crown length, while the distal cervical line curves less. The mesial cervical line of the maxillary lateral incisor also has considerable curvature.

In summary, maxillary central and lateral incisors differ in size, incisal edge shape, crown shape, root length, and cervical line curvature.

Comparative Table: Maxillary Central vs Lateral Incisor

The main differences between maxillary central and lateral incisors are their size, shape, and position in the mouth. Here is a table summarizing the differences:

Both maxillary central and lateral incisors are located in the upper jaw and are derived from the maxillary bone. They share similar functions, such as cutting food during mastication to form the food bolus.