Title: Managing the unexpected: An Insight into supernumerary teeth
Abstract:
Supernumerary teeth represent a developmental anomaly defined as the presence of an additional tooth beyond the normal series, occurring in approximately 2% of the permanent dentition (Mitchell et al., 2013). Supernumerary teeth can contribute to a range of aesthetic and functional disturbances. While some are asymptomatic and detected incidentally, others can lead to significant dental abnormalities, including delayed eruption or displacement of permanent teeth, formation of caries, crowding, diastemas or cyst formation. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary care are therefore essential to reduce the potential consequences on the developing dentition. This presentation will review current orthodontic literature and explore the aetiology, which remains unclear but is thought to involve a genetic component. Emphasis is placed on diagnostic approaches, with clinical and radiographic assessment aiding early diagnosis and treatment. The management of supernumerary teeth is complex and requires a comprehensive, well-coordinated approach rather than addressing the tooth in isolation. Treatment strategies, ranging from observation to surgical intervention, should be tailored to the individual patient, considering factors such as the morphology, position and eruption status of the supernumerary tooth, the stage of dental development and any associated pathology. Case examples and evidence-based guidelines will be discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of supernumerary teeth, as well as the clinical considerations required to optimise patient care.
