Where?
Near the upper central incisors.
← All explanationsMesiodens
Can an extra tooth block an upper incisor?
A mesiodens is a supernumerary tooth near the upper central incisors. It may be visible or remain within bone. It can obstruct eruption or alter the position of a permanent incisor, but may also be found incidentally.
For training & practice ↓
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Understand the location
The term describes an extra tooth near the upper midline. It is not simply a retained primary tooth.
Assess eruption
When one incisor lags well behind the other, there are several possible causes. A mesiodens is one of them.
Plan timing
Whether and when to remove it depends on position, root development and effects. Eruption may still require monitoring or assistance afterwards.
Read the full explanation
Understand the location
The term describes an extra tooth near the upper midline. It is not simply a retained primary tooth.
Assess eruption
When one incisor lags well behind the other, there are several possible causes. A mesiodens is one of them.
Plan timing
Whether and when to remove it depends on position, root development and effects. Eruption may still require monitoring or assistance afterwards.
Notes on the teaching images
- Example of a visible mesiodens. Other forms may lie within bone and are not shown here.
At a glance
Always treat?
Depending on position and effects.
What afterwards?
Continue monitoring eruption and space.
Knowledge in motion
Explained in 36 seconds.
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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
Mesiodens and primary tooth
A mesiodens is an extra tooth, not a normal primary incisor.
Quick answers
Can it always be seen in the mouth?
No. It may remain beneath the gum or within bone.
Will the incisor definitely erupt by itself afterwards?
That is not guaranteed. Position, space and developmental stage matter.
Does a front-tooth gap always mean mesiodens?
No. Gaps have different causes and can occur during normal eruption.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How does the mesiodens affect the permanent incisor?
If an upper incisor is unusually late, an examination can assess eruption.
Have eruption assessedAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Midline
- The line between the right and left halves of the dentition.
- Eruption obstruction
- Something obstructs the normal eruption path.
- Supernumerary
- Additional to the usual number of teeth.
Make the distinction
A mesiodens is an extra tooth, not a normal primary incisor.
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.