What is Hyperdontia?

Hyperdontia refers to a condition of having an extra tooth(s) or teeth that develop in excess of the normal number of teeth. Such additional teeth are referred to as supernumerary teeth. Hyperdontia may be seen in both primary (baby) and permanent (adult) dentition, but in permanent dentition it is more prevalent.


These additional teeth may be located at any part of the mouth but the most common are those that are around the upper incisors, the molar area, and the lower jaw. Supernumerary teeth can be of different forms, starting with normal appearance of teeth to the rudimentary and malformed forms.


Types of Supernumerary Teeth

The teeth that are supernumerary are categorized according to the location and shape:


  • Mesiodens: This is the most widespread form of supernumerary tooth, and it is generally located between the upper incisors.
  • Paramolar: These teeth are located either inside or outside of the normal arch of teeth.
  • Distomolar: This is a type that takes place behind the third molars also referred to as wisdom teeth.
  • Supplemental Teeth: These are normal teeth but they are additional and may be found in the same position as other teeth.
  • Conical Teeth: These are abnormal teeth, which come out in the form of pegs and are usually found together with the molars.

Causes of Hyperdontia

The supernumerary teeth complications causes are not clear but some causes are thought to lead to the development of supernumerary teeth:


  • Genetic Factors: Genetic pre-disposition to extra teeth may be a factor in hyperdontia in most instances and thus a genetic predisposition may be involved in the development of extra teeth.
  • Environmental Factors: Some environmental factors involved in the development of the teeth like trauma, infections or disruptions in the embryo development of the teeth may predispose a person to develop extra teeth.
  • Cleft Lip or Palate: Patients with cleft lip or palate are also more prone to hyperdontia because this situation may influence the normal formation of dental arch.
  • Syndromes and Disorders: Hyperdontia is linked with some genetic disorders, such as Gardner syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, and Cleidocranial dysplasia.

Symptoms of Hyperdontia

The majority of hyperdontia patients might have no direct signs of their additional teeth. Nevertheless, the existence of supernumerary teeth may cause numerous problems, which may cause hyperdontia symptoms, such as:


  • Crowding of Teeth: Additional teeth may result in the misalignment of the adjacent teeth or overcrowding leading to oral health problems and a high chance of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Delayed Tooth Eruption: The existence of other teeth may affect the eruption of normal teeth resulting in delayed eruption or even impaction of teeth.
  • Pain or Discomfort: Supernumerary teeth, particularly the malformed ones can create any pain, irritation, or discomfort to the part of the body.
  • Gum Inflammation: When the additional teeth are partly affected or not able to come out completely, they may cause inflammation and infection of the gums around them.

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Diagnosis of Hyperdontia

Hyperdontia diagnosis is done at an ordinary dental checkup. Dentists can combine visual inspection with diagnostic tools and can include:


  • X-rays: X-rays (radiographs) are used to identify supernumerary teeth especially those hidden behind the gums or teeth.
  • Clinical Assessment: A dentist might find a supernumerary tooth in a clinical assessment, particularly when it is exposed in the mouth.
  • CT Scans or 3D imaging: In more complicated situations, a 3D scan can be performed to see a detailed image of the place and location of the supernumerary tooth.

Treatment Options for Hyperdontia

The process of hyperdontia treatment is based on the degree of the disorder and the symptoms which it produces. Although not every supernumerary tooth will need intervention, there are instances where dental treatment is necessary in order to avoid complications.


  • Observation: When the additional tooth does not lead to any problems and is not able to disrupt the eruption of other teeth, your dentist might decide to observe it without taking any action.
  • Extraction: The supernumerary tooth can be extracted in case it is crowding, painful, or impacted. This is usually performed under local anesthesia and the tooth can be extracted in a simple procedure or in more complex cases it can be surgically removed.
  • Orthodontic Treatment: When hyperdontia causes crowding or misalignment of the rest of the teeth, orthodontic treatment, e.g., braces, can be proposed to correct the bite and straighten the teeth.
  • Surgical Removal: The supernumerary teeth, in the instance where they are affected and fail to emerge in a proper manner, may need surgery to remove them and fix any damage or misalignment.

Complications of Hyperdontia

Unattended hyperdontia is prone to cause a number of complications including:


  • Dental Malocclusion: Overcrowded or misaligned teeth may cause problems with chewing, speech, and oral hygiene.
  • Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Extraneous teeth may result in places in the mouth that are more difficult to clean, causing plaque and an accumulation of tooth and gum disease.
  • Aesthetic Issues: The growth of additional teeth may compromise the overall aesthetic of the smile, causing discomfort and self-consciousness.

Prevention and Future Outlook

No preventive measures of hyperdontia are known, as this condition is mostly genetically determined. Though, dental checkups should be taken regularly to prevent any complications early. By early diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to prevent possible complications and guarantee the most positive results in people in whom the supernumerary teeth are present.


Conclusion

Extra teeth or hyperdontia is a comparatively uncommon condition which may have different meanings to the dental health of a person. Although not all cases might need treatment, there are cases which might cause serious complications or problems like crowding, pain, and misalignment. Routine dental check-ups, early detection, and proper management are essential in the management of hyperdontia and preservation of optimum oral health. In case you are suspected of having or know someone who has supernumerary teeth, then the next step to proper evaluation and care is to visit a dentist.


Please book an appointment with the best Dentist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through Instacare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.