Mamelons are little bumps on the edges of the incisors that create a serrated look. They’re a common feature in children and young adults, but have you ever wondered what they’re for? Many people notice them but don’t know what they are or if they require treatment.
If you or your child have these incisor bumps, keep reading to learn why they occur and whether they should be removed.
What Are Mamelons?
Mamelons are the rounded bumps or ridges that appear on the edges of newly erupted permanent incisors. They typically occur on the central and lateral incisors — in other words, the front four teeth on both the top and bottom.
There’s usually three bumps on each tooth, creating the appearance of a scalloped or wavy edge, similar to a serrated knife.
Why Do Mamelons Appear?
So, why do mamelons appear? The truth is that they’re a natural part of the tooth formation process. Adult teeth are formed as three separate lobes that fuse during tooth development, resulting in the bumpy appearance. They may also play a role in eruption, helping the tooth cut through the gums as it grows in.
If you’re concerned by the appearance of mamelons, don’t be. They are completely normal and harmless, and are not considered a dental problem or disease.
Do Mamelons Go Away?
Mamelons are most noticeable when children’s permanent teeth first erupt, around 6–12 years of age. They often wear down naturally over time due to biting, chewing, and everyday use. However, if they remain into adulthood, it may indicate alignment issues, such as:
- Malocclusion
- An open bite
- A crossbite
- An underbite
- A deep bite
- Crowding
- Excessive space between the teeth
- Protrusion
These misalignments mean there’s a lack of natural wear to the tooth enamel, so the mamelons remain intact. Another possible reason these bumps might not go away on their own is a soft diet.
On the flip side, mamelons that disappear rapidly after the incisors erupt can indicate teeth grinding or a tendency to chew on hard objects. In these cases, it’s important to talk to your child’s dentist about ways to protect their enamel from further wear.
When Might Mamelons Require Dental Attention?
Mamelons almost never require dental attention. In rare cases, they may interfere with bite or indicate orthodontic issues; however, the choice to remove them comes down to cosmetics. If they persist into adulthood and affect the patient’s confidence, there are ways to achieve a smoother smile with the power of cosmetic dentistry.
Talk to your dentist to see if one of these options is right for you. Avoid DIY methods, as they can irreversibly damage your teeth.
Enamel Contouring
Enamel contouring is the simplest way to address mamelons. It involves non-invasive reshaping of the tooth surface using drills and/or lasers. Since the enamel doesn’t contain nerves or blood vessels, no anesthesia is required. The procedure is quick, painless, and relatively inexpensive.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is another non-invasive cosmetic option. Rather than filing down the mamelons, you can opt to fill in the ridges with a special type of dental resin material. However, the results are impermanent, and the resin may need to be retouched every few years.
Veneers
Dental veneers are thin shells that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance. They can cover minor misshapenness and bumps like mamelons, enhancing smile aesthetics. With proper care, they can last many years, making them a more permanent option than dental bonding.
Dental Solutions by Eric Felt DDS
At the office of Eric Felt DDS, we’re proud to offer a wide range of general and cosmetic dental procedures designed to support a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles. If you’ve noticed mamelons on your teeth or your child’s, our friendly dental team is happy to evaluate and discuss options with you. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have about tooth shape or bite.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward achieving a more beautiful, dazzling smile.
