What does “Tooth numbering” mean?
The tooth number is a notation to accurately record the position of the tooth to be treated. Depending on the system used, the same tooth may appear with different numbers.
How do you read the FDI two-digit number?
In the FDI two-digit system, the first digit identifies the upper or lower, right or left quadrant, and the second identifies the tooth’s position counting from the central incisor. For permanent teeth, quadrants 1 to 4 are, from the patient’s perspective: upper right, upper left, lower left, and lower right.
How do I check this during consultation?
Rather than just memorizing the number, check the top and bottom, left and right, and tooth names. We also check whether the indications on the treatment plan correspond to the actual location of discomfort.
Is it an error if the numbers for other hospitals are different?
In addition to FDI, there are other systems such as Universal and Palmer. Rather than simply reading the American Universal numbers as FDI numbers, check the notation system used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tooth is FDI number 11?
This is the right central incisor of the upper jaw based on the patient. If you apply the number 11 to other notation systems, its position may change.
Do primary teeth have the same number as permanent teeth?
FDI uses quadrants 5 to 8 for primary teeth. During the transition between dentitions, confirm whether the tooth is primary or permanent.
Questions needed to understand tooth number
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which numbering system does the plan use?
Explanation and evidenceCheck the notation system first and connect it to the tooth position.
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Do the numbers and the top, bottom, left and right positions match?
Explanation and evidenceLook at a photo or model of the mouth and point out the teeth to be treated.
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