So, what exactly is the cusp of Carabelli? Who is it named after?

Put simply, the cusp of Carabelli is just an extra bump on one or two of your teeth. According to the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, these possibly form from overactivity of the dental lamina, one part of tooth development.

A cusp is an elevated feature of a tooth found on your posterior (back) teeth and canines. Cusps help with chewing certain types of food by providing more surface area. This structure aids grinding while eating to break down food better.

While maxillary (upper) molars typically have four cusps on the top to help with chewing, some people have a fifth cusp on the side of the first one. This additional cusp is known as the cusp of Carabelli. Georg Carabelli first described this anomaly in Austria, 1842, while serving as court dentist of Emperor Franz.

If you're interested in finding out if you have a cusp of Carabelli, pull out a mirror, have a friend look, or ask your dentist next visit. If you have them, you can find them in the top row of teeth. They would be on the third molars from the back of your mouth in adults (or second if you've had your wisdom teeth removed!).

For most, the cusp of Carabelli is just a fun topic to bring up at a gathering to see who has them and who doesn't. Others may be concerned about their dental health.

This feature varies by ethnic population, but it is unlikely to cause health concerns regardless of your background. While many are concerned about removing their Cusps of Carabelli, they're unlikely to lead to health problems or need removal. The main concern to be aware of is the potential for decay along the grooves of the cusp.

If you're concerned about your cusp of Carabelli, here are some easy tips:

• Brush your teeth twice daily for two minutes
• Give special care to the area around this tooth to ensure no food or plaque gets trapped in its grooves.
• Use a mouth rinse to help remove plaque or debris stuck in your teeth.

If there's any unusual discomfort or decay around your cusp of Carabelli, it's a good idea to have your dentist take a look.

The cusp of Carabelli is an interesting feature that's fascinated both scientists and casual observers for over one-hundred years. You're now prepared to see if you or your friends have them and to practice proper care if you do.

Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.