Idiopathic resorption of impacted mesiodentes: a radiographic study

Abstract

Background: Although a large number of mesiodentes are left in situ, only a few are found in radiographs from epidemiological studies of adult populations. This leads to the development of a hypothesis that mesiodentes may be resorbed and disappear over time. The aim of this study was to radiographically investigate the frequency of resorptions and pathologies in relation to mesiodentes left in situ.

Methods: The study population consisted of 44 individuals, with 49 mesiodentes left in situ at an early age. The individuals were 18-38 years old when re-examined. The inclusion criteria were that the mesiodentes had been diagnosed in childhood and left in situ, and that each individual was over 18 years of age at the time of re-examination. Either digital or analogue intraoral radiographs were used at the re-examination and compared with earlier analogue radiographs.

Results: Forty-one per cent of the impacted mesiodentes showed resorptions-from limited to nearly complete resorption. No pathologies in connection to the mesiodentes were found.

Conclusion: About half of the mesiodentes examined displayed resorption. No pathologies caused by the mesiodentes were recorded.