Supernumerary teeth 8


Definition: An extra tooth or multiple extra teeth.  They are sometimes named based on the region they are located.  Supernumerary teeth in the anterior region are mesiodens.  Supernumerary teeth in the premolar region are peridens.  And lastly, supernumerary teeth in the molar region are distodens.

Radiographic Features:

Location: Anywhere in the maxilla and mandible.  Mesiodens are more common in the maxilla whereas peridens are more common in the mandible.

Edge: Well-defined.

Shape: Tooth-like.

Internal: Mixed radiopaque/radiolucent. Radiopacity of enamel and dentin.  Radiolucency of pulp chamber/root canal.

Other: May interfere with the eruption of other teeth.

Number: May be single or multiple.

Supernumerary – Mesiodens

Mesiodens – multiple

Peridens – multiple

Peridens – multiple

Distodens – single

Distodens – multiple

(both are in the maxilla just distal to the second molars)

Case of the week

Mesiodens: September 2011

Distodens: January 2012, March 2012, October 2012



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