Extra teeth, known as hyperdontia or supernumerary teeth, can pose significant challenges despite a wide grin being generally admired. Hyperdontia is characterized by a child having more than 20 baby teeth or an adult developing more than 32 permanent teeth. In such cases, seeking advice from a dental professional is crucial.
Understanding the Symptoms of Hyperdontia
When it comes to hyperdontia, the presence of extra teeth typically doesn’t result in any apparent symptoms. However, there are instances where people may experience toothaches and notice crowded or overlapping teeth, which can affect the proper alignment of their bite. It’s worth noting that the severity of these symptoms depends on the positions of the extra teeth. In more severe cases, hyperdontia can even lead to facial abnormalities, though these can be improved through appropriate treatment.
Diagnosing Hyperdontia
Diagnosing hyperdontia is a relatively straightforward process, especially when the extra teeth have already erupted. However, there are instances where additional teeth may not be visible because they have not yet broken through the gum line. In such cases, dental X-rays are often used to identify these hidden teeth. For more complicated cases of hyperdontia, a dentist may request a CT scan to obtain a more comprehensive view of the patient’s mouth and teeth.