Retrospective evaluation of upper mesiodentes by using 3D cone beam computed tomography scans: a cross-sectional study

Background: Mesiodentes are supernumerary teeth diagnosed around the midline, posing a challenge for clinicians. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency and radiological characteristics of mesiodentes in the anterior maxilla in a group of Turkish children between the ages of 4 and 15 by employing cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This retrospective study evaluated 207 CBCT images from patients aged 4–15. Mesiodens positions, tooth morphology (using anatomical landmarks, neighboring teeth, orientation), and complications with adjacent teeth (including eruption anomalies, rotation, and diastema) were recorded. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U tests at a 5% significance level. Results: Among 207 patients, 45 (21.7%) were found to have mesiodentes, with a total of 58 mesiodentes detected in these individuals. A statistically significant difference was noted between sexes in the prevalence of mesiodentes (36 males versus 9 females; p = 0.0095). The likelihood of mesiodens increased with the number of male patients (Odds Ratio = 2.97; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.26–6.57). There was no significant difference in age distribution between cases with and without mesiodens (p = 0.200). The majority of mesiodentes (63.8%) were located in close proximity to the incisive canal, and most were associated with the right and left upper permanent central incisors (44.8% and 51.7%, respectively). Nearly half of the mesiodentes exhibited a conical morphology (48.3%). Additionally, 20.7% of mesiodentes presented without complications, whereas 31.0% demonstrated eruption anomalies. A combination of eruption anomalies and rotations was identified in 13.8% of cases, while eruption anomalies combined with hyperplastic follicles and cysts were observed in 10.3%. Conclusions: This retrospective study found that mesiodens teeth are often linked to nearby anatomical structures and adjacent teeth, can lead to complications, and occur more frequently in males. Larger studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Cone beam computed tomography; Dental anomalies; Mesiodens; Supernumerary teeth

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