Radiographic characteristics of mesiodens in a non-syndromic pediatric population in the Black Sea region

Abstract

Aim

A mesiodens is the most frequent type of supernumerary tooth. They can be related to several complications, such as ectopic eruption and midline diastema. The aim of the present study was to assess the radiographic properties of mesiodens by analyzing the associated age, sex distribution, number of mesiodens per patient, shape, direction of eruption, and their association with complications.

Methods

The present study was performed using panoramic radiographs of 14 400 pediatric patients (4-14 years old) who visited the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Gaziosmanpasa University for a variety of dental complaints from 2015 to 2018.

Results

There were 82 mesiodens diagnosed in a total of 71 patients. Among the 82 mesiodens, 51 (62.1%) were conical in shape, which was the most commonly seen shape, followed by 14 supplemental (17.07%), and 12 (14.6%) tuberculate. Of the 82 mesiodens, 65 (79.2%) were aligned vertically, nine (10.9%) were inverted, and eight (9.7%) were horizontally placed. Clinical complications were observed in 76.8% of patients.

Conclusion

The management of mesiodens can be performed using three methods: (a) spontaneous eruption; (b) early intervention; and (c) delayed intervention. However, the management of mesiodens should be evaluated on an individual basis to determine the best treatment method. Mesiodens-associated complications should be addressed prior to the lateral incisors erupting.