Hyperdontia is a rare medical condition that causes an affected person to grow extra teeth in their mouth. While the condition is benign much of the time, some patients can experience discomfort or other more serious problems as a result.
Hyperdontia occurs in males twice as much as females, and the condition is present in 1 to 4 percent of the population. Since this condition is so rare, few people know what it is, even when they experience it. People also may have difficulty finding ways to treat their hyperdontia issues.
In this article, our top expert is going to go over ways that you can relieve any uncomfortable symptoms resulting from hyperdontia. We will answer many common questions that people have concerning the condition.
What are the symptoms of hyperdontia?
Sometimes, a person with hyperdontia experiences little to no symptoms. Others aren’t so lucky, though. The side effects of hyperdontia include:
- Swollen gums. Inflamed gums caused by the pressure of extra teeth can cause discomfort in the mouth, making it difficult to eat and get comfortable.
- A sore jaw. When your gums are swollen due to pressure, your jaw is likely hurting as well. The extra teeth can rearrange the structure of your mouth. This can force your teeth and gums to press against your jaw.
- Crooked teeth. When these extra teeth push against your gums, they can cause your primary set to move around. Over time, this will give your teeth a more crooked appearance.
- Tooth decay and gum disease. Extra teeth make it a little more difficult to properly clean and floss your primary set of teeth. Because of this complication, your teeth could decay and you may experience gum disease.
- Low self-esteem. This symptom is not physical, but it can cause just as much discomfort. Those who feel insecure about their teeth are less likely to smile or laugh for fear of being judged.
Why do people get hyperdontia?
Several underlying genetic diseases can cause hyperdontia. Some of these are:
- Gardner’s Syndrome
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
- Cleft palate/lip
- Cleidocranial Dysplasia
- Fabry Disease
Each of these conditions are rare, but they can be debilitating and may be the cause of your hyperdontia. If you have hyperdontia, you should talk to both your dentist and your doctor.
What are some ways to treat hyperdontia in your mouth?
Thankfully, there are ways to deal with issues stemming from hyperdontia if the symptoms do cause you any discomfort. If you are suffering from your condition, here are a few options as to what you can do:
- Ask your dentist if having your extra teeth removed is the right choice for you. Many times, you can fix your problems by removing some or all of your extra teeth. This will give your primary teeth room to space out and will give your gums and jaw It’s a simple fix that can change your life for the better.
- If the pain in your mouth is not severe enough to warrant the removal of your extra teeth, your dentist may recommend that you take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
- If the damage to your primary teeth is severe, you may be able to go to an orthodontist for braces to straighten them back out. It is important to note that the extra teeth should be removed; if they aren’t, your results will not be permanent.
- Get treatment for your underlying genetic condition. Of course, this should be done in conjunction with tooth removal or other treatment, but any treatable underlying condition should be managed with a doctor for a better quality of life.
Where can you go for hyperdontia treatment?
If you do not currently have a primary 
dentist that you trust, the team at Dental Group of Simi Valley in Simi Valley, CA is happy to help you regain your comfort and your confidence. Our dentists are passionate about our patients and will do whatever they can to ensure that you get the best treatment available.
Dr. Herschel Berger and Dr. Laura Jen Kin have decades of experience in treating dental patients, so you can rest assured that you are in capable hands. If you have concerns about hyperdontia or any other dental issue, contact us in person or over the phone.
