What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Supernumerary Teeth

What is Hyperdontia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Hyperdontia is an abnormal condition in which more teeth develop within the dental arch, in addition to the regular set of teeth that form normally
• Under normal circumstances, the numbers of milk teeth or primary teeth that form are 20 (by or before the age of 12 years); the permanent teeth total 32 in numbers (forming by age 21 years). Any additional teeth that form are termed Supernumerary Teeth and the condition is called Hyperdontia
• It is important to note that in a majority of individuals with Hyperdontia, only one extra tooth is noted, which is quite common. Hyperdontia that presents with several additional teeth are generally associated with certain genetic disorders, such as Gardner syndrome, and this is comparatively rare
• The cause of Hyperdontia is not well-understood, and thus, presently it is not possible to prevent the condition. However, with early detection and treatment of the condition, complications, such as cosmetic issues and delayed eruption of normal teeth, may be avoided
• The treatment of Hyperdontia depends on the location, type, and size of the additional tooth/teeth. In some cases, surgery is recommended to remove Supernumerary Teeth. With appropriate treatment, the prognosis is usually good

Who gets Hyperdontia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• It is reported that Hyperdontia is seen in 1 in every 25-100 individuals; thus, making it a fairly common condition
• Hyperdontia is seen in both children and adults, although it is not frequently associated with primary teeth (i.e., in children)
• Both males and females are affected, although a male predominance of 2:1 (male-female ratio) is observed
• Specific racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is not observed

What are the Risk Factors for Hyperdontia? (Predisposing Factors)

There are several risk factors for Hyperdontia and some of these include:

• Genetic disorders including Gardner syndrome, Fabry disease, and Ehler-Danlos syndrome
• Disorders affecting the oral cavity including cleft lip and palate, cleidocranial dysplasia, etc.
• Family history of the condition may be a risk factor

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Hyperdontia? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Hyperdontia is not well-understood
• However, researchers believe that it may be due to certain genetic abnormalities and environmental factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Hyperdontia?

The signs and symptoms of Hyperdontia can vary from one individual to another. It may include:

• Presence of an extra tooth/teeth adjacent to existing teeth, leading to overcrowding
• The tooth may be shaped normally, or present abnormally as a barrel tooth, conical-shaped tooth, compound teeth, or portray a complex appearance
• The location of the extra tooth may be near the molar teeth (at the back of the mouth) or behind the incisors (in the front of the mouth)
• There is no pain observed, although it may create discomfort while chewing or speaking
• In some cases, swelling of the mouth region and pain may be noted; especially if more than one extra tooth is present
• Supernumerary Teeth may push existing normal teeth into misalignment causing ‘crooked tooth’
• Misalignment of the jaws with respect to each other (malocclusion)
• Cosmetic issues and unsightly appearance
• Symptoms of the underlying genetic condition, if any present

How is Hyperdontia Diagnosed?

Hyperdontia may be diagnosed using the following tests and exams:

• A complete physical examination of the mouth and teeth
• Assessment of medical history including evaluating any underlying genetic conditions, if any present
• Dental X-rays, which can reveal the presence of Supernumerary Teeth
• In case of buried teeth, CT scans may be necessary to get a detailed picture of teeth arrangement

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Hyperdontia?

Complications due to Hyperdontia may include:

• The presence of more than one extra tooth may cause severe eating and speaking difficulties
• Delayed eruption of normally growing teeth due to occupying space
• Hyperdontia in growing children may severely disrupt the normal arrangement of teeth

How is Hyperdontia Treated?

• The dental professional may assess the condition and recommend surgery to remove additional teeth causing significant disruption to teeth alignment in individuals with Hyperdontia
• Piezoelectric ultrasonic bone surgery is a technique that may be used to remove surplus tooth/teeth
• Following removal of Supernumerary Teeth, additional procedures or prosthetic dental devices may be necessary to correct alignment of teeth along the dental arches

How can Hyperdontia be Prevented?

Currently, there are no available methods to prevent Hyperdontia. However, if it associated with a genetic disorder, then the following may be considered:

• Genetic testing of the expecting parents (and related family members) and prenatal diagnosis (molecular testing of the fetus during pregnancy) may help in understanding the risks better during pregnancy
• If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic disorders

Visit a dental professional regularly to treat or ascertain any dental health issues early.

What is the Prognosis of Hyperdontia? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• With early and appropriate treatment the prognosis of Hyperdontia is typically good
• However, the prognosis also depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Hyperdontia:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/