Leong’s Premolars: What Parents & Patients Need to Know

Did you know some people have premolars with a little “extra horn” on the chewing surface? Dentists call this a tubercle, and teeth with this feature are known as Leong’s premolars.

In Singapore, about 7 out of every 100 students have them. They are not “bad” teeth — just a special variation. But because of the way they are shaped, they may need extra care to keep them healthy.

Why Do Leong’s Premolars Matter?

• They can chip or break more easilyThe extra horn is fragile and may snap off when chewing harder foods.

• Risk of tooth decay or infectionIf the horn breaks, the inside of the tooth may be exposed, letting bacteria in.

• They can be harder to cleanFood and plaque may collect around the grooves, raising the risk of cavities.

How Dentists Help Protect Them

If your child or you have Leong’s premolars, here’s what dentists usually do:

1. Protective filling / sealantA thin protective layer is placed over the horn to keep it strong and reduce the chance of breaking.

2. Regular monitoringDentists will check at every visit if the horn is still intact and if the protective layer is holding up.

3. Treatment when neededIf the tooth becomes painful or infected, treatments like root canal may be needed. In severe cases, extraction may be considered — but with early care, this can usually be avoided.

What You Can Do at Home

• Brush and floss carefully around those teeth.

• Avoid chewing very hard foods (like ice, hard candy, or uncracked nuts) on premolars with the tubercle.

• Visit your dentist every 6 months or as advised.

• Let your dentist know quickly if you notice pain, sensitivity, or swelling near the tooth.

Key Takeaway

Leong’s premolars are not harmful — they’re just different. With the right preventive steps and regular dental check-ups, they can stay healthy and last a lifetime.