Deep pits and fissures on the occlusal surface
A) Serve as spillways
B) Help to grind and pulverize food
C) Promote plaque retention
D) Allow for interdigitation during chewing
E) All of the above are true.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While it may seem that deep pits, fissures, or holes in the enamel make cleaning difficult, these structures have numerous beneficial aspects. By serving as spillways during mastication, pits and fissures enable food to pass around the teeth. This action prevents food from being forced interproximally. Pits and fissures facilitate interdigitation of opposing cusps during grinding of food, which dissipates extreme occlusal forces. Along with these beneficial aspects, deep pits and fissures promote plaque retention.

Deep Pits and Fissures on the Occlusal Surface