Which statement accurately describes ridge resorption in the mandible?

Ridge resorption in the mandible is an important concept in dentistry, particularly in relation to prosthodontic treatment and implant placement. The accurate description provided states that the mandible resorbs buccally and the maxilla resorbs lingually.

This phenomenon occurs due to the different anatomical and physiological characteristics of the maxilla and mandible. The mandible typically experiences greater buccal resorption because of the orientation of the jawbone and the loading patterns it experiences during function. Conversely, the maxilla often exhibits resorption in the lingual direction, influenced by factors such as the presence of the maxillary sinuses and the buccal contour of the maxilla.

Understanding this differential pattern of ridge resorption is critical for dental professionals when planning treatments that involve the restoration of edentulous spaces, as it can affect the choice of prosthetic designs, implant placement, and overall treatment outcomes.