Hyperdontia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and More

ALPHARETTA, GA – Have you been told your child suffers from hyperdontia? This condition, which results in supernumerary or extra teeth, affects between one and four percent of the population. It is typically found in a higher number of males than females.

While years of research have presented no definitive answer as to the cause of hyperdontia, there are several theories. Some experts believe it may simply be the result of environmental factors, while others blame a genetic predisposition. Still, others think it is connected to disorders such as Gardner’s Syndrome or Cleidocranial Dysostosis. People who suffer from these disorders can have multiple extra teeth grow.

What Is Hyperdontia, and What Causes It?

Although hyperdontia is more common in adults, symptoms can appear when children begin to lose their baby teeth. An extra tooth might develop from a separate tooth bud, or a permanent tooth bud can split, causing two teeth instead of one.

These extra teeth can grow anywhere inside the mouth-not just in the gum line. These supernumerary teeth can appear between permanent teeth, behind or in front of permanent teeth, or even along the roof of the mouth.

The extra teeth fall into four classifications based on their structure. Conical, tuberculate, supplemental, and odontoma indicate both their structure and location in the mouth. The teeth typically grow in one of three shapes; peg, tubercle, or cusp.

Is Hyperdontia Hurtful?

Fortunately, hyperdontia is not painful and will not cause serious problems. Your kid might still have pressure and sometimes swelling on their jaw due to the extra teeth in the mouth, jaw, and gums.

Hyperdontia in Children

Boys have a higher chance of developing permanent supernumerary teeth that don’t fall out with baby teeth. It is often noticed by parents when children are toddlers.

Studies have shown that some childhood conditions and diseases might also have higher possibilities of developing hyperdontia. Such as Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, Gardner’s syndrome, Cleidocranial dysplasia, Down syndrome, cleft lip, and cleft palate.

There is not enough data on what causes hyperdontia, but there is an indication that the disruption or stimulation of the cells in the jawline might be related, as well to the abnormal division of tooth buds and genetics where children might inherit it.

What Happens If Hyperdontia Is Left Untreated?

A dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry will be the best choice to assist your child if you notice an abnormal growth pattern.

“Hyperdontia does not go away on its own, so treatment will be necessary to correct it,” says children’s dentist Dr. Nanna Ariaban. “In rare cases, if left too long, the supernumerary teeth can fuse to permanent teeth, making it necessary for surgery to detach them.”

In other cases, the teeth remain impacted, failing to erupt. These teeth can block permanent teeth from erupting, can displace permanent teeth, cause crowding, or form cysts in the mouth. Hyperdontia can lead to problems if and when children decide to get braces. A consultation with a Johns Creek pediatric dentist will involve X-rays, which can show the position of any extra teeth.

How Do You Treat Hyperdontia?

Many parents are concerned about the effects of hyperdontia on their children and want to know what can be done to treat it.

According to our Alpharetta pediatric dentist, Dr. Nanna Ariaban, extra teeth can be extracted, but they should only be taken out if they pose a danger to the child. Having an extra tooth is totally okay as long as it isn’t a health risk.

“Typically, I will recommend extracting the teeth before they cause any damage,” says Dr. Ariaban. “Extraction depends on the location of the extra tooth and its relation to the other teeth.

If we don’t foresee any problems from the extra tooth, it is sometimes possible to leave it, as long as we are certain no problems will arise in the future.” It’s important to begin your child’s relationship with a dentist by the age of one. This way, his mouth can be monitored, and problems can be addressed as they arise. If issues are left too long, they can create more damage than they might otherwise have.

At Polkadot Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Nanna will check your child’s mouth for any signs of hyperdontia. She is experienced in treating all types of teeth as a board-certified children’s dentist. If you have concerns or your child has not yet visited a dentist, schedule an appointment today.

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