Case of the Week: Supernumerary tooth (Distodens)


The weeks case is a case of a supernumerary tooth in the molar region.  Supernumerary teeth are frequently identified by the region of which they are found in the patients mouth.  A supernumerary tooth in the anterior portion of a jaw is sometimes referred to as a mesiodens.  A supernumerary tooth in the premolar region of a jaw is sometimes referred to as a peridens.  And lastly, a supernumerary tooth in the molar region of a jaw is sometimes referred to as a distodens.  This case is that of a distodens preventing the eruption of the third molar.  Supernumerary teeth vary greatly in size from a very small tooth (aka microdont) to a normal size tooth.  This one is a very small supernumerary tooth.

Enjoy!