Ask the Dentist - Extra Teeth

Q: My teenage daughter has an extra tooth growing between her upper two front teeth, does it need to be removed?

Extra tooth (also known as supernumerary tooth) that is found in between the upper two front teeth is called mesiodens. It is the most common type of supernumerary tooth. The cause of mesiodens is not fully understood although genetic factor is associated to play a role in the formation. This extra tooth can cause delayed or abnormal eruption of the two front teeth.

Therefore, it is recommended that you bring your daughter to see a dentist in order to find out if the extra tooth is a cause for concern. Whether an extraction is required, it depends on various factors:

• Eruption – has it erupted or is it affecting the growth of other the two front teeth?

• Appearance – does it look relatively normal compared to neighbouring teeth? Is the shape and size of the teeth normal? Is it growing in the same direction as other teeth?

• Alignment – has it caused the two front teeth to be crooked, rotated or have a gap in between?

In cases where mesiodens affects adjacent teeth, it is generally better to have it removed. If extraction is not required, periodic dental check-ups is advised to ensure that any future changes (cystic formation or damage to adjacent teeth) can be detected promptly.

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Dr Debbie Hong is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her specialty training from the National University of Singapore. Dr Hong was the Recipient for the Silver Jubilee Award by NUS Dental Society for her outstanding performance. Dr Hong has a special interest in dental implants, jaw surgery and complex extractions. 

For more information, please visit http://www.specialistdentalgroup.com

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