In dentistry, a mamelon is a small rounded projection along the cutting edge of a tooth. It’s composed of enamel, the same hard outer layer that covers the rest of the tooth.
Mamelons show up on certain newly erupted teeth (teeth that have just come through the gumline). Each affected tooth typically has three mamelons. Together they produce a scalloped, wavy margin.
The word mamelon comes from French for “nipple,” describing the way each little bump sticks out from the tooth’s edge.
These bumps are commonly seen on the permanent teeth of children, though adults can have them as well.
Below we’ll describe what mamelons are, why some adults retain them, and the options for removing them.
Which teeth develop mamelons?
Mamelons form only on newly erupted incisors. They’re most often observed on permanent (adult) incisors, but primary (baby) incisors can also display them.
You have eight incisors in total: four in the upper front center of the mouth and four in the lower front center.
Incisors are used for cutting into food. For example, you rely on these teeth when taking a bite of a sandwich.
Because incisors occupy the front center of the mouth, they contribute heavily to your smile and are the most noticeable teeth when you speak.
Why do mamelons exist?
One theory is that mamelons help teeth break through the gums during eruption. However, they are generally considered to have no important clinical function.
What happens to mamelons over time?
Most of the time, mamelons require no treatment.
In many people the bumps are gradually worn down by normal chewing. They become smoothed as the upper and lower front teeth contact each other.
If your teeth are misaligned, however, the mamelons may persist.
This often occurs with an open bite, where the front teeth don’t overlap vertically. Because the front teeth fail to meet, the mamelons can remain into adulthood.
You may also retain mamelons if your teeth erupted later than average.
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How mamelons are removed
If you’re considering mamelon removal, consult a dentist. The procedure involves shaving the edges of the teeth to eliminate the bumps.
This is a cosmetic dental procedure known by names such as:
- tooth reshaping
- tooth recontouring
- tooth shaving
- cosmetic contouring
The dentist performs this in-office using a file, disc, or dental drill to remove a small amount of enamel and smooth the tooth edges.
The process is typically painless and usually doesn’t require local anesthesia because mamelons are enamel and contain no nerves.
The visit is quick, you can leave the same day, and there’s no downtime for recovery.
Some people may experience a temporary increase in sensitivity to hot or cold after the procedure.
The treatment is generally inexpensive, but since it’s cosmetic, your dental insurance may not cover it. Check with your insurer beforehand.
If you’ll be paying out of pocket, confirm the cost with your dentist prior to the procedure.
Why people choose to remove mamelons
Mamelons are harmless and don’t impair oral health or eating function.
Many people opt to have them removed purely for cosmetic reasons. If you dislike their appearance, ask a dentist about reshaping your teeth.
Once removed, mamelons do not grow back; the change is permanent.
Takeaway
Mamelons are the small rounded bumps along the edges of incisors. They appear on the front four teeth in each jaw and don’t serve a specific purpose.
These bumps are most obvious when adult incisors first erupt and are typically worn away by normal chewing over time.
If misalignment prevents your teeth from contacting, mamelons may persist. Speak with a dentist if you want them removed—removal involves reshaping and smoothing the tooth edges.
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