Mesiodens –perhaps a tooth nightmare

I have planned to have my teeth re-structured since I got back here in Davao. I am guilty of not properly taking care of my teeth when I was young; I just realized the importance of my teeth lately. Last January, I had three teeth extracted. Quite plenty? Those were lower molars that have been decayed for years! And now, I decided to consult an orthodontist for braces. I really don’t have a good set of teeth; most of them were not aligned and this is one of my insecurities.

As a requirement before the placement of braces, I had undergone two x-ray procedures. And while waiting for the dentist’s go signal, I am already dreaming of my well-structured teeth. But worst thing happened – through the x-ray result it has been found that I have a supernumary tooth called mesiodens.

A mesiodens is the most common supernumary (extra) tooth. It is located in the maxilla in the midline (hence the special name which means “middle tooth”). They can be well formed or just little clumps of tooth like stuff. A related phenomenon is the odontoma. They are often discovered on a routine x-ray or perhaps if the teeth are not erupting in a normal manner. (Source: http://cyberdentist.blogspot.com/2007/01/mesiodens-or-extra-tooth.html)

The cause of mesiodentes is not fully understood, although proliferation of the dental lamina and genetic factors have been implicated. Mesiodentes can cause delayed or ectopic eruption of the permanent incisors, which can further alter occlusion and appearance. It is therefore important for the clinician to diagnose a mesiodens early in development to allow for optimal yet minimal treatment.

Treatment options may include surgical extraction of the mesiodens. If the permanent teeth do not erupt in a reasonable period after the extraction, surgical exposure and orthodontic treatment may be required to ensure eruption and proper alignment of the teeth. In some instances, fixed orthodontic therapy is also required to create sufficient arch space before eruption and alignment of the incisor(s). Early diagnosis allows the most appropriate treatment, often reducing the extent of surgery, orthodontic treatment and possible complications. (Source: http://www.cda-adc.ca/jcda/vol-69/issue-6/362.html)

Being ignorant and having these kinds of tooth abnormalities, I personally encourage you to have your teeth x-rayed and consult your dentist!