New teeth often appear jagged due to the presence of structures called mamelons. These are normal features on newly erupted teeth and typically wear down over time.
What are Mamelons?
Mamelons are small, rounded bumps or scallops found on the biting edges of newly erupted incisor teeth (the front teeth). They are a natural part of tooth development.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Mamelons | Small, rounded bumps on new incisor teeth. |
| Location | Biting edges of incisors (front teeth). |
| Appearance | Jagged or scalloped edge. |
| Significance | Evidence of tooth formation from tissue lobes. |
| Persistence | Usually wear down over time. |
How Teeth Develop and Why Mamelons Appear
Teeth don't grow as a single, solid structure from the beginning. Instead, according to the provided reference, "they form and fuse from three tissue lobes, which morph into a single tooth". Mamelons are simply the remaining evidence of where these lobes fused together.
Are Jagged Teeth a Problem?
Generally, no. The reference states, "Parents are often alarmed to see rough edges on a child's permanent teeth, but mamelons are normal in young children and generally wear down on their own." In most cases, the mamelons will smooth out naturally through normal chewing and biting.
When to Be Concerned
- If the jagged edges persist into adulthood.
- If the teeth are not aligned properly, preventing normal wear.
If either of these situations occurs, consulting a dentist is advisable. They can assess the situation and recommend treatment if necessary.
