In dentistry, the term supernumerary teeth refers to the presence of extra teeth beyond the normal number typically found in the human oral cavity. These teeth may appear in various locations in the jaw and can sometimes cause different oral health problems.
Definition of Supernumerary Teeth
According to research conducted by UGM Faculty of Dentistry student, Selviana Wati Fobia, under the supervision of drg. Bambang Dwirahardjo, Sp.BM.(K), titled Extraction of Impacted Canine and Supernumerary Teeth in the Maxilla, supernumerary teeth are additional teeth that grow beyond the normal number of human teeth and are often impacted or embedded in the jaw. They may appear singly or in multiples, and their position can be in the anterior (front) or posterior (back) parts of the jaw.
Types of Supernumerary Teeth
Supernumerary teeth are usually classified into several types based on their position and shape:
- Paramolar: Extra teeth that appear beside normal teeth, usually in the molar region.
- Mesiodens: Extra teeth that grow in the midline between the upper incisors, often found in the central area of the upper jaw.
- Parafunctional teeth: Extra teeth that appear in functional areas, such as the molar region.
Problems Caused by Supernumerary Teeth
Supernumerary teeth do not always cause symptoms, but their presence may lead to various issues, such as:
- Disruption of the growth and development of other teeth
- Shifting of normal teeth, leading to malocclusion
- Accumulation of plaque and calculus around the extra teeth
- Complications in tooth extraction and orthodontic treatment
The article notes that the extraction of supernumerary teeth, particularly those that are impacted or embedded, is an important step in treatment to prevent functional and aesthetic problems..
Treatment of Supernumerary Teeth
Treatment for supernumerary teeth usually involves a surgical procedure to remove the impacted or embedded teeth, especially if they cause complications or pose risks to oral health. After extraction, follow-up evaluation is required to adjust orthodontic treatment if necessary.
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Supernumerary teeth are additional teeth that grow beyond the normal number and may appear in various areas of the oral cavity. Proper treatment, including the extraction of impacted teeth, is crucial to ensure oral health and prevent complications. Such treatment should be carried out carefully by professionals to minimize risks and achieve optimal results.
References
Selviana Wati Fobia, drg. Bambang Dwirahardjo, Sp.BM.(K), Extraction of Impacted Canine and Supernumerary Teeth in the Maxilla, https://jurnal.ugm.ac.id/mkgi/article/view/15415
Author: Rizky B. Hendrawan | Photo: Freepik
