The mandibular lateral incisor is the second tooth from the midline in the lower jaw. It is slightly wider than the central incisor and complements its function. The lateral incisor develops crown completion at 4-5 years and typically erupts around 7-8 years of age. Key distinguishing features are its twisted appearance due to the lingually curved incisal edge and displaced cingulum on the lingual surface. The distal root surface often has a more pronounced concavity compared to the mesial surface.