Which option best describes the contributing factors to shedding?

• A. Pressure from the permanent tooth
• B. Large muscles in the face
• C. Pressure from the permanent tooth and large muscles in the face
• D. Genetic factors

Answer: (C)

Shedding happens when the permanent tooth pushes against the root of the deciduous tooth, triggering resorption, and the functional forces from the facial muscles during chewing help loosen and mobilize the tooth so it can shed. The erupting tooth provides the direct pressure that starts root resorption, while the muscular activity adds the movement that facilitates loosening. Genetic factors can influence when shedding occurs, but they don’t by themselves explain the mechanical process. So, describing shedding as due to both the pressure from the erupting tooth and the forces from facial muscles best fits how this process works.