Hyperdontia

The hallmark of hyperdontia is the presence of one or more extra teeth. 

Although this condition does not cause discomfort in most cases, the following symptoms may appear if the extra teeth put excessive pressure on the jaws or gums:

• Pain, swelling, and/or tenderness in the gums and/or jaws
• Overcrowding of teeth
• Tooth infection

Depending on where the extra teeth are present, the following symptoms may also be noted:

• Tooth impaction (the partial or complete trapping of a tooth within the jawbone).
• Overcrowding of teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Difficulties with biting and chewing
• Malocclusion (a bad bite)
• Cavity formation, i.e., tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Formation of noncancerous oral cysts

Although the exact underlying causes of hyperdontia remain unclear, several factors may contribute to this condition:

• Hyperactivity of the cells in the dental lamina (the cells responsible for tooth development)
• Certain health conditions associated with hyperdontia, such as cleft lip and cleft palate, cleidocranial dysplasia, Fabry disease, Gardner syndrome, Down syndrome, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
• Atavism, i.e., the reappearance of an ancestral genetic trait. It is possible that our ancestors needed extra teeth to grind raw nuts and plants in their primitive diet.

Hyperdontia is often diagnosed during a routine examination. Dentists may use X-rays or CT scans to ascertain the presence of impacted supernumerary teeth.

If supernumerary teeth are detected, the dentists examine whether they are causing functional or aesthetic issues.

Although treatment for hyperdontia is not always needed, if the extra teeth interfere with the functioning and health of the oral cavity, removing them is advised. Dentists often recommend a tooth extraction under the following conditions:

• Pain or discomfort
• Difficulty in chewing, eating, brushing, or flossing
• The extra teeth make the patient conscious

Consult a dentist if you notice extra teeth in your child or yourself, especially if they are causing pain, overcrowding, or problems with eating, speaking, or cleaning. Timely diagnosis and treatment can greatly help reduce the risk of any long-term complications.

Hyperdontia cannot be completely prevented, as it is often linked to genetic and developmental factors. However, regular dental check-ups ensure early detection and timely management to prevent complications such as impaction, cavities, and gum disease.

For management of hyperdontia, consult a:

• Dentist: the first point of contact for diagnosis
• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon or Orthodontist: For removal or corrective treatment