Mesial surface of tooth
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Summary
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These studies suggest that the mesial surface of teeth, particularly in primary teeth, is prone to caries, and its condition can be influenced by adjacent surfaces and anatomical features.
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Caries and Structural Characteristics of the Mesial Surface of Teeth
Caries Rates on the Mesial Surface of Teeth
Caries in Primary and Permanent Molars
Research has shown that the mesial surface of the first permanent molar (6m) and the distal surface of the second primary molar (05d) exhibit distinct caries rates in children aged 6 to 12 years. The enamel caries rate for 6m is significantly lower than that for 05d, with 4.6 new lesions per 100 tooth surface-years for 6m compared to 11.3 for 05d. However, both surfaces show high dentin caries rates, indicating rapid progression into the dentin once the lesion reaches the inner half of the enamel.
Caries Distribution in Mandibular Incisors
In permanent mandibular incisors, the distribution of caries between mesial and distal surfaces varies with age. For central incisors, the distribution remains almost constant from age 15 onwards. However, in lateral incisors, the percentage of caries affecting mesial surfaces declines slightly with age, while the percentage affecting both mesial and distal surfaces declines markedly, and the percentage affecting only distal surfaces increases significantly.
Caries Patterns in Children
A study on children at SDN Mangaran 2 in Kebun Renteng, Jember, found that caries in primary teeth were most common on the mesial surface, whereas in permanent teeth, caries were more prevalent on the occlusal surface. This suggests that the mesial surface is particularly vulnerable to caries in primary teeth.
Structural and Functional Aspects of the Mesial Surface
Cementum Thickness and Mesial Drift
Cementum thickness increases with age and is influenced by mesial drift, which exerts tensional forces on the distal root surfaces. Studies have shown that cementum is significantly thicker on the distal surfaces of teeth compared to mesial surfaces, with the difference becoming more pronounced with age. This increased thickness on the distal surface may be due to functional stimulation from mesial drift over time.
Advantages of Mesial Rests in Removable Partial Dentures
Mesial rests in removable partial dentures offer several advantages over distal rests. These include a more anterior axis of rotation, reduced trauma to soft tissues distal to abutment teeth, decreased need for indirect retention, a more favorable fulcrum point, and increased resistance to distal displacement of the dentures.
Caries Progression and Nearby Surfaces
Impact of Nearby Caries on Mesial Surface of First Molars
The mesial surface of the first permanent molar (T6M) is highly susceptible to caries, especially in children under 12. Caries progression on T6M is significantly associated with caries on the distal surface of the primary second molar (t5D) and the occlusal surface of the first permanent molar (T6O). The presence of caries on t5D and T6O at baseline increases the likelihood of caries on T6M during follow-up.
Conclusion
The mesial surface of teeth, particularly in primary molars and the first permanent molar, is highly susceptible to caries. Structural factors such as cementum thickness and functional aspects like mesial drift play a significant role in the health and maintenance of these surfaces. Preventive measures and careful management of caries on adjacent surfaces are crucial to mitigate the progression of caries on the mesial surface.
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