compare and contrast the distinguishing features of maxillary and mandibular premolars

Maxillary Premolars:

1. Number: There are two maxillary premolars on each side of the upper jaw, making a total of four.
2. Cusp: Maxillary first premolars usually have two cusps - one buccal and one palatal. The maxillary second premolar may have two or three cusps.
3. Roots: Maxillary first premolars usually have two roots - one buccal and one palatal. The maxillary second premolar typically has one root.
4. Occlusal Table: The occlusal table of maxillary premolars is generally larger than that of mandibular premolars.

Mandibular Premolars:

1. Number: There are two mandibular premolars on each side of the lower jaw, making a total of four.
2. Cusp: Mandibular first premolars usually have two cusps - one buccal and one lingual, but the buccal cusp is much larger. The mandibular second premolar typically has more than two cusps.
3. Roots: Mandibular premolars typically have one root.
4. Occlusal Table: The occlusal table of mandibular premolars is generally smaller than that of maxillary premolars.

In summary, while both maxillary and mandibular premolars serve the same function in the dental arch and have similar overall morphology, they differ in the number of cusps and roots, and the size of the occlusal table.