Treating Hyperdontia
While everyone loses their baby, or primary, teeth at a different rate, the primary teeth should be completely lost by the time a person reaches the age of 12. At this point, the permanent teeth will be coming in. A normal set of permanent teeth consists of 32 teeth. A patient suffering from hyperdontia grows extra teeth, either during the primary or permanent stage of tooth development. These extra teeth, called supernumerary teeth, can interfere with the normal set of permanent teeth and cause problems that require restorative dentistry treatment to repair the smile.
Dr. Patrick Casey offers treatment for hyperdontia at his Montreal, QC dental practice. This treatment allows room for the permanent teeth to align properly so that patients can enjoy a healthy, attractive, and fully functioning smile.
What Causes Hyperdontia?
Hyperdontia affects roughly four percent of the population. Researchers have been unable to pinpoint exactly what causes hyperdontia. However, statistics show that this condition is nearly twice as likely to affect men than women. Other factors that seem to increase the risk of hyperdontia include oral malformations such as a cleft lip or palate, and certain diseases. Although there are people who may be more susceptible to hyperdontia, the condition can affect anyone, and these extra teeth can develop in children and adults.
Treating Hyperdontia
Hyperdontia develops differently in each patient. While there are many patients who develop several extra teeth, it is just as common for a patient with hyperdontia to have just a single extra tooth. However, even a single extra tooth can cause overcrowding in the mouth that makes it difficult for the teeth to align and function properly. To avoid oral health problems and functional difficulties, it is important to seek professional dental treatment for hyperdontia.
Dr. Casey is able to treat hyperdontia to provide room for a patient’s normal teeth to grow and function as they should. He will customize each treatment based on the specific needs of each patient. Some of the factors that will go into creating a hyperdontia treatment plan include how many extra teeth have developed, the location of those teeth, and whether any of the supernumerary teeth have fused with the permanent teeth.
Below are some common aspects of hyperdontia treatment:
- Tooth extraction: If supernumerary teeth are interfering with permanent teeth or causing oral complications, it is likely that they will need to be extracted. Dr. Casey will remove the extra teeth using either general or local anesthetic. The exact technique will be dependent on the location of the teeth, if they have erupted, and how they are formed. No matter the technique that is used, Dr. Casey will make patient comfort a priority.
- Orthodontic treatment: In many cases patients, patients require orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment will ensure that the permanent teeth align properly so that the smile can function as it should. Dr. Casey will let patients know if they are ideal candidates for orthodontic treatment.
- Endodontic treatment: If a supernumerary tooth has fused with a permanent tooth, the patient may need endodontic treatment, which focuses on the pulp of the tooth and the tissues surrounding the tooth’s roots.
Contact Us
It is important to treat hyperdontia to protect the placement and function of the normal teeth. If you would like to learn more about hyperdontia and how best to treat this condition, contact us at your earliest convenience.