The second mandibular premolar can present with two or three cusps. Each cusp has a cusp apex.

If this tooth has two cusps, they are called the buccal and lingual cusps.
If three cusps are present, they are known as the buccal, mesiolingual and distolingual cusps.

The mesiolingual cusp is usually more prominent than the distolingual cusp. If the second mandibular molar has only one lingual cusp, it is situated towards the mesial surface.

The second mandibular premolar also has two developmental grooves - mesiobuccal and distobuccal developmental grooves - and a buccal ridge.

The height of the contour of the second mandibular premolar is as follows:

Buccal - in the connection between the middle and cervical thirds;
Lingual - in the junction between the middle and occlusal thirds;
Mesial and distal - between middle and occlusal thirds.

This tooth has a round occlusal outline, and overall its occlusal anatomy is less defined and more rounded.

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Second mandibular premolar (part 1)