SUPERNUMERARY TOOTH

Introduction:

A supernumerary tooth is an extra tooth that is present in the mouth. These teeth can be found in any part of the mouth, but are most commonly seen in the front of the mouth, near the incisors. Supernumerary teeth are also known as supplemental or accessory teeth.

Supernumerary teeth are relatively rare, occurring in less than 0.5% of the population. They can cause problems if they erupt into the mouth and crowd or disturb the normal alignment of the teeth. Treatment may be required to remove the supernumerary tooth or to prevent problems with dental development.

Causes of Supernumerary Tooth:

The exact cause of supernumerary teeth is unknown, but they are thought to be the result of an overgrowth of tooth-forming cells in the Jaw during fetal development. Supernumerary teeth may be inherited and can run in families.

Symptoms of Supernumerary Teeth:

Supernumerary teeth may not cause any symptoms and may only be discovered during a routine dental examination. In some cases, supernumerary teeth can crowd or disturb the normal alignment of the teeth, causing problems with dental development.

Treatment for Supernumerary Teeth:

If a supernumerary tooth is not causing any problems, no treatment may be necessary. The tooth can be monitored by a dentist or orthodontist to make sure it is not affecting the development of the surrounding teeth.

If a supernumerary tooth is causing problems, treatment may be required to remove the tooth or to prevent problems with dental development. Treatment options for supernumerary teeth include:

1. Dental Extraction:

This is the most common treatment for supernumerary teeth. The tooth is removed by a dentist or oral surgeon.

2. Orthodontic Treatment:

In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be used to move the surrounding teeth and make room for the supernumerary tooth.

3. Maxillary Expansion:

This treatment is used to widen the upper jaw. A device is placed in the mouth to gradually expand the jaw over a period of time. This treatment may be used in children who have not yet reached puberty.

4. Surgery:

In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove a supernumerary tooth. Surgery is typically only considered if other treatment options are not effective.

Prevention of Supernumerary Teeth:

There is no known way to prevent supernumerary teeth from developing. However, early diagnosis and treatment of supernumerary teeth can help to prevent problems with dental development. Regular dental examinations can help to identify supernumerary teeth so that treatment can be started early.

Conclusion:

Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth that can develop in the mouth. These teeth are relatively rare, occurring in less than 0.5% of the population. They can cause problems if they erupt into the mouth and crowd or disturb the normal alignment of the teeth. Treatment may be required to remove the supernumerary tooth or to prevent problems with dental development.

Early diagnosis and treatment of supernumerary teeth can help to prevent problems with dental development. Regular dental examinations can help to identify supernumerary teeth so that treatment can be started early.

 

FAQ’s:

1. Are Supernumerary Teeth rare?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the prevalence of supernumerary teeth varies greatly. However, it is generally thought that they are quite rare, with an estimated incidence of less than one percent. Supernumerary teeth can occur in any part of the mouth, but they are most commonly found in the maxillary (upper) jaw.

They may be present at birth (congenital) or they may develop later in life (acquired). Most supernumerary teeth are benign and cause no problems, but in some cases they can lead to Crowding, impacted teeth or other dental problems. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

2. Can Supernumerary Teeth be removed?

Yes, supernumerary teeth can be removed if they are causing problems or if they are impacted and cannot erupt into the mouth. The procedure is generally straightforward and can be performed under local anesthesia. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

3. What are the consequences of having Supernumerary Teeth?

The consequences of having supernumerary teeth vary depending on the number, location and type of teeth present. In some cases, they may cause no problems at all. However, in other cases they can lead to Crowding, impacted teeth or other dental problems. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

4. Why do Supernumerary Teeth occur?

The precise cause of supernumerary teeth is unknown, but it is thought to be a developmental anomaly. In other words, something goes wrong during the formation of the teeth in the womb and extra teeth are produced. This is a relatively rare condition, and the exact incidence is not known.

5. What is the prognosis for people with Supernumerary Teeth?

The prognosis for people with supernumerary teeth is generally good. Most teeth are benign and cause no problems. However, in some cases they can lead to Crowding, impacted teeth or other dental problems. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

6. What is the treatment for Supernumerary Teeth?

The treatment for supernumerary teeth varies depending on the number, location and type of teeth present. In most cases, no treatment is necessary and the teeth can be left alone. However, in some cases they may need to be removed if they are causing problems or if they are impacted and cannot erupt into the mouth. The procedure is generally straightforward and can be performed under local anesthesia. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

7. What are the risks of not treating Supernumerary Teeth?

If left untreated, supernumerary teeth can lead to Crowding, impacted teeth or other dental problems. If you have any concerns about your teeth, please consult your dentist.

8. When should I see a dentist for Supernumerary Teeth?

If you think you may have supernumerary teeth, you should consult your dentist. They will be able to assess the situation and advise you on the best course of action.

9. Are Supernumerary Teeth genetic?

There is no definitive answer to this question as the precise cause of supernumerary teeth is unknown. However, it is generally thought that they are not genetic, but rather a developmental anomaly. In other words, something goes wrong during the formation of the teeth in the womb and extra teeth are produced. This is a relatively rare condition, and the exact incidence is not known.