Origin?
A variation in tooth development.
← All explanationsDens invaginatus
What is a tooth within a tooth?
In dens invaginatus, the outer developing tooth folds inwards. A narrow pit may therefore extend deep into the tooth. The phrase tooth within a tooth is figurative: these are not two fully separate teeth.
For training & practice ↓
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An opening at the surface
A small pit, often on the inner surface of an upper lateral incisor, may be a visible clue. Its depth cannot be judged reliably from outside.
Different depths
The fold may be limited to the crown or extend further. Imaging is selected according to the clinical question.
Reduce infection risk
Deep pits can be hard to clean. Protecting the entrance may be considered when the pulp is healthy; infection requires a different approach.
Read the full explanation
An opening at the surface
A small pit, often on the inner surface of an upper lateral incisor, may be a visible clue. Its depth cannot be judged reliably from outside.
Different depths
The fold may be limited to the crown or extend further. Imaging is selected according to the clinical question.
Reduce infection risk
Deep pits can be hard to clean. Protecting the entrance may be considered when the pulp is healthy; infection requires a different approach.
Notes on the teaching images
- One illustrative variant: the invagination ends within the crown here. Shape and depth vary.
At a glance
Risk?
Hard-to-clean openings can favour infection.
Treatment?
Based on anatomy and pulp condition, not the name alone.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
Three steps. No audio.
Each scene can also be selected manually.
Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Not a second row of teeth
Dens invaginatus describes an inward-folded structure. Hyperdontia means extra teeth.
Quick answers
Is it always painful?
No. It can initially be symptom-free.
Do I immediately need root canal treatment?
Not because of the name alone. Depth, openings and pulp condition matter.
When should I seek help?
Seek prompt assessment for new pain, swelling or a gum boil. Rapidly increasing swelling or swallowing difficulties need urgent help.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How far does the fold extend, and is the pulp healthy?
An unusual incisor pit can be assessed to determine whether protection or further investigation is needed.
Have a tooth pit assessedAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Invagination
- Inward folding during development.
- Palatal
- Facing the palate.
- Pulp assessment
- Assessing pulp condition using appropriate findings and tests.
Make the distinction
Dens invaginatus describes an inward-folded structure. Hyperdontia means extra teeth.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.