Tooth numbering systems: FDI, Universal, Palmer notation
Dental Anatomy, Embryology and Oral Histology · Dental (BDS)
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Study notes
A 20-year-old student named Rahul visits the dentist because his 'upper right back tooth' hurts. The dentist looks inside. Using the FDI system, the dentist identifies the tooth as '16' (First Molar). In the Universal system, this would be tooth '3'. In the Palmer system, it is '6' with a symbol showing the upper right side. Diagnosis: Deep cavity. Treatment: 1. The dentist marks '16' on the chart to ensure the correct tooth is treated. 2. Local anesthesia is given. 3. The cavity is cleaned and filled. Outcome: Rahul is pain-free. Because of the numbering system, the dental assistant knew exactly which tools to prepare for the upper right side.
Related topics
- Tooth morphology: permanent dentition — incisors, canines, premolars, molars
- Tooth morphology: deciduous dentition, differences from permanent
- Development of face, palate, tongue, and oral cavity
- Tooth development: bud, cap, bell stages; enamel and dentin formation
- Eruption and shedding: chronology, theories of eruption
- Enamel: structure, composition, defects — amelogenesis imperfecta