Abstract
AbstractTeeth develop by a series of epithelial–mesenchymal interactions that govern not only where the tooth will form within the developing jaw, but also what type of tooth will develop. Before any sign of tooth development is observed, the patterning information regarding what type of tooth will form has already been determined. Thus an incisor forms in the distal jaw, whereas the molars form more proximally at the back of the jaw. Then, as the tooth develops, a signalling centre, known as the enamel knot, is set up at the centre of the tooth germ, which controls the shape (morphogenesis) of the tooth and the number of cusps which form. The genes involved in these patterning processes are starting to be elucidated and experiments involving knockout mice and misexpression studies have given insights into the molecular genetics of tooth morphogenesis.Key concepts:How a tooth develops in the embryo?How tooth identity is determined – i.e. to develop as a molar or incisor?How tooth shape is controlled – i.e. number of cusps?
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