multipletooth

Multipletooth is a term occasionally used to describe a dental anomaly involving more than the normal complement of teeth in a jaw. In formal dental terminology, the condition is known as hyperdontia or supernumerary dentition; multipletooth is not widely recognized as a distinct clinical diagnosis. The term may appear in non-specialist writing or in discussions of dental development to emphasize the presence of multiple teeth beyond the usual count, irrespective of their morphology or position.

Etiology is thought to involve genetic factors that disrupt normal tooth germ regulation. Hyperdontia can occur in isolation or as part of syndromes such as Gardner syndrome or Cleidocranial dysostosis. Environmental influences and sporadic mutations have also been proposed, but the exact causes remain under study. Management decisions often depend on location and effect on eruption, alignment, and oral function.

Extra teeth may be erupted or impacted and can cause crowding, midline shifts, or delayed eruption of adjacent teeth. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination supplemented by radiographs, with panoramic radiographs or cone-beam computed tomography providing precise localization.

Treatment is individualized. Asymptomatic supernumerary teeth may be monitored, while teeth that cause crowding or interfere with eruption are commonly removed. Orthodontic therapy may be required to restore alignment after extraction. When associated with syndromes, multidisciplinary care is often indicated. Prognosis is generally favorable with timely intervention, though complexity increases with the number and position of supernumerary teeth.

See also: hyperdontia, supernumerary tooth, odontogenesis.