Small ridges on the biting edges of front teeth are a common feature, especially on newly emerged adult teeth. This article explains what these ridges are and why they may persist.
Understanding Tooth Ridges
The ridges on your front teeth are scientifically known as mamelons, which are a normal part of tooth development. These small, rounded protrusions typically appear as three distinct bumps along the biting edge of newly erupted permanent incisors, giving the tooth a scalloped or wavy appearance. Mamelons form from the three lobes of enamel that fuse together as the tooth develops beneath the gums, before it emerges into the mouth. The presence of mamelons indicates healthy enamel formation and the natural growth pattern of permanent incisors. They are also believed to assist the tooth in breaking through the gum tissue during eruption.
Why Ridges Can Persist
While mamelons are a natural part of tooth development, they typically wear down over time due to normal chewing and biting activities. Most people see these ridges gradually disappear by their late teens or early twenties, as the friction from daily eating smooths the tooth edges. However, in some individuals, mamelons can persist into adulthood. The primary reason for their persistence is often related to bite alignment, where the front teeth do not make direct contact with opposing teeth during chewing, preventing natural wear. Conditions like an open bite or severe overbite can lead to mamelons remaining visible.
Genetic predisposition can play a role, as some individuals may have enamel that is naturally more resistant to wear. Modern diets, which often consist of softer foods, may also result in less overall tooth wear compared to historical diets, allowing mamelons to remain intact for longer. Generally, the continued presence of mamelons into adulthood is not a health concern and does not interfere with oral health.
When to Consider Dental Options
Individuals might consider dental intervention for persistent mamelons primarily for aesthetic reasons, as their ridged appearance can sometimes cause self-consciousness. While rare, if these ridges interfere with the bite or cause discomfort, a dental professional can offer solutions.
One such procedure is enamel reshaping, also known as dental contouring or odontoplasty. This procedure involves a dentist gently filing down the mamelons to create a smoother, more even tooth surface. Enamel reshaping is quick, often taking about 30 minutes, and is generally painless as enamel lacks nerves, so local anesthetic is usually not required. Dental bonding, which involves applying tooth-colored composite resin, and porcelain veneers are other options for more extensive cosmetic adjustments. Consulting with a dentist is always recommended to determine the most suitable course of action based on individual needs and the specific characteristics of the mamelons.