19 - Mechanisms of tooth eruption

Abstract

This chapter discusses the mechanisms of tooth eruption. The complex process of tooth eruption results in the movement of a tooth from its developmental to its functional position. The functional position of a tooth is liable to undergo changes throughout life; therefore, human tooth eruption is a continuous rather than a limited process. The process of tooth eruption is divided into three phases: pre-eruptive phase, prefunctional phase, and functional phase. During the pre-eruptive phase, the enamel organ, lying within the developing jaw, reaches full size, along with the completion of tooth crown calcification. The prefunctional phase commences with root formation and is completed when the tooth reaches the occlusal plane. The functional phase includes the generally small tooth movements that occur after the tooth has reached the occlusal plane. All mammalian teeth do not erupt by the same mechanism. There are three major categories of techniques that have been used to investigate human tooth eruption, and it includes clinical studies, histological studies, and evaluation by radiographs.