Retrospective analysis of the factors influencing mesiodentes eruption.

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the factors that predict the spontaneous eruption of mesiodens.

DESIGN

From the records of 431 patients (346 boys and 85 girls, average age 8.8 years) who visited Samsung Medical Center from January 2002 to December 2006, 471 mesiodentes were reviewed. The eruption rate was investigated according to the width/length ratio, angulation, location, and shape determined from periapical or panoramic radiographs.

RESULTS

The regression model showed that the width/length ratio and angulation were important determinants influencing the eruption of mesiodentes (P < 0.001, Pearson's r = 0.619). The location of the mesiodentes also affected their eruption (P < 0.01). However, no significant relationship was detected between the shape and eruption rate of mesiodentes (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

A lower probability of spontaneous eruption existed when the tooth had a greater angulation, shorter length, and wider width. Spontaneous eruption occurs more often when the mesiodens is located between the permanent incisors.