​Hyperdontia​

Hyperdontia refers to a condition where a person develops more than the normal amount of teeth, which are twenty primary (baby) teeth and thirty-two permanent (adult) teeth. Usually, primary teeth start to erupt (grow) around six months and have all fall out by twelve years. These primary teeth are then usually replaced by the permanent teeth. However, hyperdontia is a disorder which results in extra teeth (supernumerary teeth) which can occur in any part of the dental arch. Most often, supernumerary teeth are permanent teeth incisors in the maxillary (upper) arch or the mandibular (lower) arch, or they may also be present in the premolar or molar region (either erupted or impacted). 

This condition is quite rare and usually only results in one extra tooth. However multiple supernumerary teeth are possible too. This disorder usually occurs in combination with other disorders or syndromes, such as a cleft palate, Gardner’s Syndrome, or cleidocranial dysplasia. Hyperdontia can cause numerous problems, such as teeth blockage, crowding or displacement. 

Although the cause of hyperdontia is not clear, there are treatment options available that you should discuss with your dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon. If you or a loved one suffers from hyperdontia, you can choose to visit The Aga Khan University Hospital to tend your dental requirements.​​

The signs of hyperdontia can differ on an individual basis and according to severity. ​ ​
Hyperdontia and extra teeth most often lead to a number of significant clinical problems that would lead to more cosmetic and functional problems, and therefore more extensive treatment. Therefore it is strongly advised to visit your dentist, orthodontist or oral surgeon as soon as you notice problems associated with your or your child’s normal teeth growth. If an orthodontist can see that a child has hyperdontia, they may be able to fix the problem before the extra teeth would cause problems to the permanent teeth when they start to emerge. Thus, most orthodontists strongly believe that a child should be evaluated by the time they are seven years old, and that you should pay regular visits to your dentist (about every six months), so that they may catch any abnormalities before they progress.​ ​
Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started​.
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When you visit your orthodontist or dentist about a dental problem, they will start by asking you about your symptoms, dental history and general medical history. They will then conduct an oral examination, through which they would usually be able to tell that you or your child suffers from hyperdontia. Your doctor will probably ask for X-rays to be taken of your mouth and teeth​.

Not all supernumerary teeth are problematic and it is not always necessary to treat or extract extra teeth that do obstruct normal development. However, more often than not extra teeth will need to be extracted in order to prevent other clinical problems, infection, damage and obstruction to other teeth from erupting or developing normally. Thus, depending on your situation your doctor may suggest treatment from the following possible options:

  • Extraction – this is when your tooth/teeth are removed, usually done under local or general anaesthesia 

  • Endodontic treatment – this may be required if it is found that your extra teeth and permanent teeth have fused together. This involves the treatment of the inner pulp and tissue surrounding the root of your tooth.

  • Orthodontic treatment – this may be required if the supernumerary teeth have caused your adjacent teeth to be obstructed, or if there has been crowding as a result of the extra tooth/teeth.​


Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Service at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.​ ​
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The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.