What are supernumerary teeth?
Supernumerary teeth, also known as extra teeth, are a condition in which a person develops more than the usual number of teeth. In fact, supernumerary teeth can occur in any part of the mouth, but they are most commonly found in the front of the upper jaw.
What causes supernumerary teeth?
The exact cause of supernumerary teeth is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Supernumerary teeth are more common in people with certain medical conditions, such as Gardner syndrome and cleidocranial dysplasia.
What are the symptoms of supernumerary teeth?
Supernumerary teeth may not cause any symptoms, but they can also cause a variety of problems, including:
- Crowding: Supernumerary teeth can crowd other teeth together, making it difficult to clean them and leading to cavities and gum disease.
- Crooked teeth: Supernumerary teeth can also cause teeth to become crooked. This can make it difficult to bite and chew properly.
- Difficulty cleaning teeth: Supernumerary teeth can make it difficult to clean all of the teeth in the mouth, which can lead to discoloration and plaque buildup.
- Cysts: In some cases, supernumerary teeth can develop into cysts. Cysts can damage the surrounding teeth and bone.
How are supernumerary teeth diagnosed?
Supernumerary teeth are often detected by dentists during a regular checkup or X-ray. During a checkup, a dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any abnormalities. If they notice anything unusual, they may order an X-ray to get a better look. X-rays can help dentists to see supernumerary teeth that are hidden behind other teeth or in between the roots of teeth.
How are supernumerary teeth treated?
Treatment for supernumerary teeth depends on a number of factors, including their location, size, and whether they are causing any problems. In some cases, such as when the supernumerary tooth is small and located in a space where it will not interfere with the eruption of other teeth, it may not need to be treated. However, in other cases, such as when the supernumerary tooth is large or located in a crowded area, it may need to be removed to prevent problems such as:
- Crowding of the other teeth
- Malocclusion (misaligned teeth)
- Impaction (trapped teeth)
- Tooth decay
- Gingivitis (gum disease)
- Periodontitis (advanced gum disease)
If a supernumerary tooth is causing problems, it is typically removed by a dentist or oral surgeon. This can be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case. Once the supernumerary tooth is removed, the other teeth may be able to erupt and align properly.
In some cases, other treatments may be necessary in addition to removing the supernumerary tooth. For example, if the teeth are already crowded, the dentist may recommend orthodontic treatment to straighten the teeth.
Do Supernumerary teeth need to be removed?
If supernumerary teeth cause problems, dentists typically recommend extraction. The timing of extraction depends on factors such as the tooth’s location, type, and potential impact on surrounding teeth and tissues.
Supernumerary Tooth Removal in London, Ontario
If you suspect you have a supernumerary tooth, visit Sbenati Dentistry. A dentist who understands the impact of supernumerary teeth and their extraction on overall oral health, rather than viewing them in isolation, can help you and your teeth and jaws develop properly. With the help of your dentist, you can achieve a smile that you are proud of. Contact Sbenati Dentistry today to schedule a consultation and learn more about adhesive bridges.https://calendly.com/sbenatidentistry/interview
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