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A time for change of tooth numbering systems
Author(s) -
Peck S,
Peck L
Publication year - 1993
Publication title -
journal of dental education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.53
H-Index - 68
eISSN - 1930-7837
pISSN - 0022-0337
DOI - 10.1002/j.0022-0337.1993.57.8.tb02785.x
Subject(s) - numbering , numerical digit , computer science , dentistry , arithmetic , medicine , mathematics , algorithm
Tooth numbering provides dentists with an essential shortcut in clinical record‐keeping. Today, three systems are favored worldwide: the Zsigmondy/Palmer system, the universal system, and the FDI two‐digit system. Histories of these tooth numbering methods are traced, and the strengths and deficiencies of each are discussed. The FDI two‐digit system‐used throughout the world, but not in the USA‐is the only method that makes visual sense, cognitive sense, and computer sense. It deserves consideration by American dentists as our official tooth numbering system.