To find out more about dentition:
Identification
Primary dentition
Children
Tooth numbering
When your dentist or hygienist detects early decay on one of your teeth, he or she identifies this tooth by a name or number. Dental insurance companies also use this method to identify teeth when making claims or cost estimates.
Using a odontogram to visualize the dentition
To help visualize the entire set of teeth, your dentist or hygienist may use a diagram called an odontogram. This tool allows you to better understand symptoms, diseases and possible treatments.
Universal Dental Numbering System
The universal dental numbering system in theUnited States assigns numbers to teeth ranging from 1 to 32. Numbering begins with the third molar on the upper right (tooth #1) and ends with the third molar at the bottom right (tooth #32).
It is always fascinating to see how different classification systems can lead to varied communication methods and even small confusions between professionals from different countries.
Importance of the odontogram
It is true that confusion can quickly set in when different dental numbering systems are used without clarification. It is precisely to avoid these misunderstandings that the use of dental charts, or odontograms, is crucial. They allow you to visualize and specify the teeth involved in dental work orders, whether for extractions, repairs or surgeries.
Identification of tooth surfaces
The crown of a tooth, although small, may require precise designation of its different surfaces, especially for specific treatments such as fillings. Thus, each surface is noted by a letter:
Mesial: M
Lingual: L
Distal: D
Oral: B
Occlusal: O (for molars) or
Incisor: I (for anterior teeth)
Identification of affected teeth on multiple surfaces
If a cavity affects several surfaces of the same tooth, several letters can be added after the tooth number. For example, a lower left premolar affected on all its surfaces would be noted as tooth #36 MODBL.
Quadrants to identify teeth
To facilitate the identification of several teeth in the same area, the mouth is divided into four sections called quadrants:
Quadrant 1: Top right
Quadrant 2: Top left
Quadrant 3: Bottom left
Quadrant 4: Bottom right
Each quadrant includes a central incisor, a lateral incisor, a canine, premolars and molars.
Eruption ages and tooth loss
