If on primary dentition there is no pressure of successor teeth then the rate of resorption is:
**Core Concept**
The primary dentition undergoes normal physiological resorption as the permanent teeth develop and exert pressure on the primary teeth. However, if there is no pressure from the successor teeth, the rate of resorption can be altered. This concept is related to the physiological process of tooth resorption, which is influenced by the presence or absence of occlusal forces.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The rate of resorption of primary teeth is primarily influenced by the pressure exerted by the successor teeth. When there is no pressure from the successor teeth, the rate of resorption can be significantly reduced. This is because the absence of occlusal forces reduces the mechanical stress on the primary teeth, leading to a decrease in the rate of resorption. The underlying mechanism involves the reduction in the activity of osteoclasts, which are the cells responsible for bone resorption.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the effect of the absence of successor teeth on the rate of resorption. While the rate of resorption may vary depending on several factors, the absence of successor teeth would not necessarily increase the rate of resorption.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it suggests that the rate of resorption is unaffected by the presence or absence of successor teeth. However, as explained earlier, the rate of resorption is influenced by the pressure exerted by the successor teeth.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it implies that the rate of resorption is increased in the absence of successor teeth. However, the correct answer is that the rate of resorption is reduced in the absence of successor teeth.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to remember that the rate of resorption of primary teeth is influenced by the presence or absence of occlusal forces. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the normal physiological process of tooth resorption and can be applied in clinical settings to manage patients with primary teeth.
**Correct Answer: C. Normal physiological resorption is reduced in the absence of occlusal forces.**