What is a Cusp and Cusp of Carabelli?

What is a Cusp?  Cusp is the elevation in the occulusal surfaces of the tooth which is ending in a round or conical surface. It is helps in ...

What is a Cusp? 

Cusp is the elevation in the occulusal surfaces of the tooth which is ending in a round or conical surface. It is helps in grinding of the food particles we eat.

The Number of cusps in the teeth are mentioned below,

Canines (Cuspid) - 1 Cusp
Premolar (Bicuspid)- 2 Cusps
Upper & Lower 1st Molars- 5 Cusps
Upper & Lower 2nd, 3rd Molars- 4 Cusps

Cusp of Carabelli

The fifth cusp appears attached to the mesiolingual surface of the mesiolingual cusp in the maxillary 1st Molar. It is known as the tubercle or cusp of Carabelli. It is outlined occlusally by an irregular developmental groove. The cusp ridge of the fifth cusp is approximately 2 mm cervical to the cusp ridge of the mesiolingual cusp.