An extra tooth may seem unusual, but it is a dental condition that affects both children and adults. While some people never notice an additional tooth, others experience pain, crowding, delayed eruption of permanent teeth, or difficulty maintaining proper oral hygiene.

At Dr. Gowds Dental Hospital, we frequently diagnose and treat patients with supernumerary teeth using advanced digital imaging and personalized treatment plans. Early diagnosis is important because an extra tooth can interfere with the normal development and alignment of your teeth.

In this guide, we’ll explain what an extra tooth is, why it develops, its symptoms, complications, diagnosis, treatment options, and when removal may be necessary.

What Is an Extra Tooth?

An extra tooth is a tooth that develops in addition to the normal number of teeth. Dentists refer to this condition as supernumerary teeth.

Normally, adults have:

• 32 permanent teeth
• 20 primary (baby) teeth

When one or more additional teeth develop, they are called supernumerary teeth.

These teeth may erupt normally or remain impacted beneath the gums.

Where Can an Extra Tooth Develop?

An extra tooth can develop almost anywhere in the mouth.

The most common locations include:

• Between the two upper front teeth
• Behind the upper molars
• Near premolars
• Around wisdom teeth
• Lower jaw (less common)

The most frequently seen type is called a mesiodens, which appears between the upper front teeth.

Types of Supernumerary Teeth

Dentists classify supernumerary teeth based on their location and shape.

Based on Location

Mesiodens

Located between the upper front teeth.

This is the most common extra tooth.

Paramolar

Develops beside the molars.

Distomolar

Appears behind the last molar.

Often called the “fourth molar.”

Parapremolar

Forms near the premolar region.

Based on Shape

Extra teeth may appear as:

• Normal-looking teeth
• Small peg-shaped teeth
• Cone-shaped teeth
• Tuberculate teeth
• Irregular tooth-like structures

Some resemble natural teeth, while others have an unusual appearance.

What Causes an Extra Tooth?

The exact cause is not completely understood.

However, several factors may contribute.

Genetics

Family history increases the likelihood of developing supernumerary teeth.

Developmental Disturbances

Abnormal activity of the dental lamina during tooth development can result in additional teeth.

Certain Medical Conditions

Extra teeth are sometimes associated with conditions such as:

• Cleidocranial dysplasia
• Gardner syndrome
• Cleft lip and palate
• Fabry disease (rare)

Many people with an extra tooth, however, have no underlying medical condition.

Symptoms of an Extra Tooth

Some patients have no symptoms.

Others may notice:

• Crowded teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Delayed eruption of permanent teeth
• Pain while chewing
• Swollen gums
• Visible extra tooth
• Difficulty cleaning teeth
• Food trapping
• Jaw discomfort

Many impacted extra teeth are discovered only during routine dental X-rays.

Problems Caused by an Extra Tooth

Leaving an extra tooth untreated may lead to several complications.

Crowding

Additional teeth occupy space needed for permanent teeth.

This often results in:

• Crooked teeth
• Misalignment
• Bite problems

Delayed Tooth Eruption

An impacted extra tooth may block normal permanent teeth from erupting.

This is particularly common in children.

Impacted Teeth

The extra tooth itself may remain trapped inside the jawbone.

Impacted teeth can sometimes form cysts.

Tooth Decay

Crowded teeth are harder to clean.

Food accumulation increases the risk of:

• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Bad breath

Root Damage

An impacted extra tooth may press against neighbouring teeth, causing root resorption or weakening.

Orthodontic Problems

Extra teeth often interfere with orthodontic treatment.

Removing them may be necessary before braces.

Does Every Extra Tooth Need Removal?

Not always.

Treatment depends on:

• Tooth position
• Symptoms
• Age
• Effect on nearby teeth
• Future orthodontic needs

If the extra tooth causes no problems, your dentist may recommend periodic observation.

However, removal is advised if it causes complications.

Treatment Options for an Extra Tooth

Treatment varies according to each patient’s needs.

Observation

Small, symptom-free extra teeth may simply be monitored during regular dental check-ups.

Orthodontic Treatment

If crowding develops, braces or aligners may be recommended after removing the extra tooth.

Surgical Removal

Impacted supernumerary teeth often require minor oral surgery.

This is one of the most common treatment approaches.

Combined Treatment

Some patients require:

• Tooth extraction
• Orthodontic treatment
• Space management
• Long-term monitoring

Can an Extra Tooth Be Prevented?

No.

Since the condition develops during tooth formation, there is no known method to prevent it.

However, regular dental check-ups help identify the problem early before complications arise.

Children should receive routine dental examinations to monitor proper tooth eruption.

Final Thoughts

An extra tooth may seem harmless initially, but it can lead to crowding, delayed tooth eruption, bite problems, and other dental complications if left untreated. Early diagnosis through routine dental examinations allows timely treatment and helps prevent more complex issues in the future.

At Dr. Gowds Dental Hospital, our experienced dental team offers comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment for supernumerary teeth, ensuring healthy tooth development and a confident smile. If you or your child has an extra tooth or delayed tooth eruption, schedule a consultation with our specialists for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Visit us at-

Dr gowds dental hospital Nanakramguda

Dr gowds dental hospital Gachibowli

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is an extra tooth called?

An extra tooth is medically known as a supernumerary tooth.

Is an extra tooth common?

No. Supernumerary teeth are relatively uncommon and occur in a small percentage of the population.

Can an extra tooth cause pain?

Yes. It may cause pain if it becomes impacted, infected, or presses against neighbouring teeth.

Does every extra tooth need surgery?

No. Some extra teeth only require observation, while others need surgical removal if they cause complications.

Can an extra tooth affect braces?

Yes. An extra tooth may interfere with orthodontic treatment and often needs to be removed before braces.

Is extra tooth removal painful?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, making it comfortable for most patients. Mild discomfort after surgery usually resolves within a few days.

Can children develop an extra tooth?

Yes. Extra teeth commonly appear during childhood and may prevent permanent teeth from erupting properly.