The Palmer Notation Method uses a number (1-8 for permanent teeth) or a letter (A-E for primary teeth) combined with a specific L-shaped symbol to designate the exact quadrant of the mouth.
(Upper Right): Denotes a tooth in the Maxillary Right quadrant. The corner is on the top right.
(Upper Left): Denotes a tooth in the Maxillary Left quadrant. The corner is on the top left.
(Lower Left): Denotes a tooth in the Mandibular Left quadrant. The corner is on the bottom left.
(Lower Right): Denotes a tooth in the Mandibular Right quadrant. The corner is on the bottom right.
The Universal Numbering System is the most common system in the United States, assigning a unique number (1-32) to each permanent tooth and a unique capital letter (A-T) to each primary tooth. Numbering begins with the upper right third molar (No. 1) and proceeds clockwise around the upper arch, dropping down to the lower left third molar, and continuing to the lower right third molar (No. 32)
The FDI World Dental Federation notation (also known as the ISO 3950 notation or the Two-Digit System) is the most widely used dental numbering system globally. It uses a two-digit number to identify every tooth:
The first digit indicates the quadrant (1-4 for permanent teeth, 5-8 for primary teeth).
The second digit indicates the tooth's position within that quadrant (1-8 for permanent, 1-5 for primary), counting from the central incisor outward.
Universal Numbering System
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Created on October 28, 2025
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Transcript
Universal Numbering System
Hover over each tooth to learn more
Info
Permanent Dentition
Primary Dentition
Palmer Notation Method
Hover over each tooth to learn more
Info
Permanent Dentition
Primary Dentition
FDI World Dental Federation notation
Hover over each tooth to learn more
Info
Permanent Dentition
Primary Dentition
The Palmer Notation Method uses a number (1-8 for permanent teeth) or a letter (A-E for primary teeth) combined with a specific L-shaped symbol to designate the exact quadrant of the mouth.
The Universal Numbering System is the most common system in the United States, assigning a unique number (1-32) to each permanent tooth and a unique capital letter (A-T) to each primary tooth. Numbering begins with the upper right third molar (No. 1) and proceeds clockwise around the upper arch, dropping down to the lower left third molar, and continuing to the lower right third molar (No. 32)
The FDI World Dental Federation notation (also known as the ISO 3950 notation or the Two-Digit System) is the most widely used dental numbering system globally. It uses a two-digit number to identify every tooth: