mamelon
Pronunciation: MAM-uh-lon
One of three rounded lobes of enamel on the incisal edge of a newly erupted permanent incisor, reproduced by dental technicians to achieve a natural appearance in ceramic restorations.
Full Definition
Mamelons are the three distinct developmental lobes visible on the incisal edges of newly erupted permanent incisors, formed from the three enamel-producing centres during tooth development. In unworn dentition they produce a scalloped incisal edge. Dental ceramists replicate mamelon structures using stratified porcelain application techniques to mimic natural translucency and tooth morphology in anterior all-ceramic or PFM restorations. The accurate portrayal of mamelons is a mark of high-end esthetic laboratory work. Editors reviewing ceramic shade or morphology reports should note that 'mamelon' is always spelled without an 'e' at the end in standard dental usage.
Usage
Usage note: Plural: mamelons. Do not spell as 'mammelon' (double 'm'). Distinguish from 'incisal translucency,' which is a light-transmission effect rather than a morphological feature.
In Context
- "The ceramist built three distinct mamelons into the incisal third of the central incisor crown to replicate the patient's young dentition." — Ceramic layering case report
- "A description of mamelon depth and spacing was included in the special instructions section of the laboratory prescription." — Dental laboratory prescription