[Effect and sequelae of supernumerary tooth in the premaxilla]

Although uncommon, anterior maxillary supernumerary teeth (mesiodentes) are the most frequent supernumerary teeth. A disturbed or delayed eruption of the adjacent permanent incisors may be due to a mesiodens and should lead to a further radiographic examination. In some cases the exact radiographic location of the mesiodens may prove difficult. The surgical removal of mesiodentes is especially difficult in extreme cranial displacement. The records of 90 patients with 113 mesiodentes are discussed with special reference to their degree of retention, topographical location, width of pericoronal space and surgical removal, and incidence of retention and malposition of the adjacent permanent incisors, respectively.