Which term describes a pinpoint depression where two or more grooves meet?

The term that describes a pinpoint depression where two or more grooves meet is "pit." In dental anatomy, pits are small, shallow indentations found on the chewing surfaces of teeth, especially in the occlusal area of molars and premolars. These pits are often the result of the development of the tooth and represent areas where the enamel has fused around the enamel's grooves, leading to a depression where fissures meet.

Understanding pits is essential in dentistry because they can be a site for dental caries (cavities) due to their tendency to trap plaque and bacteria. Maintaining proper hygiene around these areas is crucial for preventing tooth decay.

The other terms listed represent different structures. A fossa is a shallow depression but is larger and broader than a pit. A sulcus is a groove or furrow on the tooth surface, typically separating the cusps, while a canal refers to a long, cylindrical passageway within the tooth, such as a root canal, that houses nerves and blood vessels. Each term has its distinct anatomical relevance, but only "pit" specifically refers to the pinpoint depressions formed at the intersection of grooves.