Which cusps are classified as working cusps in the dental anatomy?

The classification of working cusps in dental anatomy refers to the cusps that make primary contact during functional activities such as chewing and grinding food. In this context, the working cusps are defined as the buccal cusps of the upper teeth and the lingual cusps of the lower teeth.

When the upper and lower teeth come together in occlusion, the buccal cusps of the maxillary molars engage with the lingual cusps of the mandibular molars effectively. This interdigitation is crucial for a stable occlusion during functional movements, allowing for efficient and effective mastication.

In opposition to this classification, other cusps mentioned in the other answer choices do not primarily serve this working function during chewing, as they either do not maintain consistent contact during mastication or are positioned in such a way that they do not facilitate food processing effectively. Understanding the dynamics of these contacts is essential for the practice of dentistry and for managing occlusal relationships.