Mystery behind discoloration of central incisor: An inverted, labially impacted mesiodens

Abstract

Supernumerary teeth are defined as the dental structures present besides the normal series of deciduous or permanent teeth. Mesiodens are the most common supernumerary teeth, occurring in 0.15–1.9% of the population. The precise etiology of mesiodens is yet uncertain and is not fully understood, although proliferation of the dental lamina and genetic factors has been implicated. Often mesiodens produces complications while in certain instances, mesiodens are accidental radiographic findings. Early diagnosis often reduces the chances of occurrence of any future complications. Treatment is the surgical extraction of the mesiodens, however the decision to extract this supernumerary tooth should be based on a risk/benefit analysis. This paper presents a case of inverted, labially impacted mesiodens which had led to nonvitality of the central incisor.