Retromolar space

Anatomical space at the back of the skull From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Retromolar space

The retromolar space or retromolar gap is a space at the rear of the mandible, between the back of the last molar and the anterior edge of the ascending ramus where it crosses the alveolar margin.

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This gap is generally small or absent in modern humans, but it was more often present in Neanderthals,[1] and it was common among some prehistoric Amerindians, such as Arikara and Mandan.[2][3]

Retromolar pad

The retromolar area of a human mandible is covered by the retromolar pad (also known as the piriformis papilla), an elevated triangular area of mucosa. It is composed of non-keratinized loose alveolar tissue covering glandular tissues and muscle fibers.[4] It is important for supporting lower complete and partial dentures as well as landmarking in the fabrication of dentures.

References

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