Classification and Causes: Understanding Extra Teeth in the Mouth
By Shape
Extra teeth are classified based on their shape into several types:
- Tubular Shape:
- The tooth has a tubular shape.
- Similar to Natural Teeth:
- The extra tooth is exactly like the type of tooth that grows near it.
- Small Appendages:
- The tooth consists of several small appendages resembling teeth close to each other.
- Conical or Peg-shaped:
- The tooth is wide at the base and narrows near the top, making it appear sharp.
- Odontoma:
- A benign, non-cancerous tumor resembling an abnormal tooth or mass.
By Location
Extra teeth are also classified based on their location:
- Along the Alignment of Other Teeth:
- The extra teeth grow in line with other teeth.
- Paramolar:
- An extra tooth grows at the back of the mouth next to the molars.
- Mesiodens:
- An extra tooth is found behind or next to the incisors, the most common type of extra teeth.
Causes of Extra Teeth in the Jaws
There is no definitive cause for the appearance of extra teeth, but they may be linked to genetic conditions and some syndromes such as:
- Gardner Syndrome:
- A rare genetic disorder causing skin cysts and issues in the skull and colon.
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome:
- A genetic condition leading to joint dislocation easily and bruising on the skin.
- Fabry Disease:
- Causes inability to sweat, pain in hands and feet.
- Cleft Palate and Cleft Lip:
- Causes difficulty in eating or speaking and ear infections.
- Cleidocranial Dysplasia:
- Causes abnormal growth in the skull and clavicle bone.