When assessing the oral cavity of a 2½-year-old toddler, which finding is expected?

Choice A reason: By age 2½ years, most toddlers have a full set of 20 deciduous (primary) teeth. These include incisors, canines, and molars. The eruption pattern typically begins around 6 months and completes by 30 months. This is the expected dental milestone for this age group. Choice B reason: Having only 12 deciduous teeth at 2½ years may indicate delayed tooth eruption. While some variation exists, this number is below the expected range and would prompt monitoring or dental consultation. Choice C reason: Permanent teeth do not begin to erupt until around age 6. A toddler should not have any permanent teeth at 2½ years. This choice is anatomically incorrect. Choice D reason: The presence of permanent teeth at this age is abnormal. A toddler should have only deciduous teeth. This combination suggests either a misunderstanding or a developmental anomaly.