When first molars are extracted in both arches, where does resorption occur more significantly in mandibular molars?

The correct answer is that resorption in mandibular molars occurs more significantly on the lingual side. This is primarily due to the anatomical and functional characteristics of the mandible and the pressures exerted during mastication.

The mandibular first molar’s position in the mouth means that when these teeth are extracted, the remaining bone is subjected to different mechanical forces. The lingual aspect of the mandible is generally subjected to greater loading forces during chewing, especially when the tongue makes contact during swallowing and speaking. Consequently, after extraction, resorption tends to be more pronounced on the lingual side to accommodate these pressures as the surrounding tissues and bone remodel.

Understanding the resorption pattern is essential when considering future dental prosthetics or implants, as it impacts the available bone for any restorative procedures. Other areas, such as the buccal side, while affected as well, do not resonate with the same level of resorption, which is specifically linked to the functional dynamics of the mandibular molars’ role during occlusion and mastication.