HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What are mulberry molars associated with?

1. Congenital syphilis

2. Cavities in children

3. Gum disease

4. Impacted wisdom teeth

The correct answer is: Congenital syphilis

Mulberry molars are specifically associated with congenital syphilis, which is an infection that occurs when the syphilis bacteria are transmitted from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy. In cases of congenital syphilis, the development of the child's teeth can be significantly affected, leading to the characteristic appearance of mulberry molars. These molars exhibit a distinctive shape that resembles a mulberry fruit, often having a poorly developed and pitted surface. This dental manifestation is one of the key indicators of congenital syphilis and serves as an important clinical sign for dental professionals. In contrast, the other conditions listed do not specifically result in the unique morphology of the molars that is observed with congenital syphilis. For example, while cavities and gum disease can affect dental health, they do not cause the distinctive changes associated with mulberry molars. Similarly, impacted wisdom teeth are related to the eruption of third molars and do not result in alterations to the morphology of molars that would lead to the appearance of mulberry molars.