The temporary accumulation of epithelial cells formed on the hard palate in a neonate are called:

Correct option is B

Ans. (b) Sol. Epstein pearls are the temporary accumulation of epithelial cells that are formed on the hard palate in neonates. They are benign and typically disappear on their own after a few weeks.
Explanation of each option:
· (a) supernumerary teeth – Incorrect. Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth that develop beyond the normal number, not epithelial accumulations on the hard palate.
· (b) Epstein pearls – Correct. Epstein pearls are benign cystic lesions that occur in neonates due to the retention of epithelial cells on the hard palate.
· (c) retention cysts – Incorrect. Retention cysts can form in various places due to blocked glands, but they are not specific to the hard palate in neonates.
· (d) sucking callosities – Incorrect. Sucking callosities are thickened skin areas that develop due to repeated sucking, not related to the accumulation of epithelial cells.