In the maxillary arch, which tooth tends to shed before the canine?

• A. Central incisor
• B. Canine
• C. Second molar
• D. First molar before canine

Answer: (D)

The question is about the usual order in which deciduous teeth shed in the upper jaw as permanent teeth come in. In the maxillary arch, the primary first molar is typically shed before the deciduous canine because it is replaced by the permanent first premolar, which begins to erupt earlier than the permanent canine. The eruption of the premolar causes resorption of the primary molar’s roots, leading to its exfoliation ahead of the canine, which is replaced later by the permanent canine. This pattern fits the common sequence of eruption and resorption in the upper jaw, making that option the best choice. Variations can occur, but this forward shedding of the primary first molar before the canine is the most consistent trend.