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Supernumerary molar teeth: observations in the skulls
1Department of Anatomy, University of Zimbabwe, Harare. prasada@compcentre.uz.ac.zw
The Central African Journal of Medicine
|August 15, 2000
Summary
Supernumerary molar teeth, specifically fourth molars, are rare in the Black Zimbabwean population, with a prevalence of 0.76% found in upper jaws only. Further clinical and radiological studies are recommended for a comprehensive understanding.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Anthropology
- Odontology
Background:
- Supernumerary teeth are an anomaly that can occur in the human dentition.
- Understanding their prevalence in different populations is important for dental health and evolutionary studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and characteristics of supernumerary molar teeth in the Black Zimbabwean population.
- To investigate the occurrence of fourth molars in the maxilla and mandible.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional anatomical observation study was conducted on 153 human skulls from the Zimbabwe Museum of Human Sciences.
- Skulls with intact maxillae and mandibles representing the Black Zimbabwean population were examined for supernumerary molars.
Main Results:
- Two instances of supernumerary fourth molars were identified in the upper jaws, resulting in a prevalence of 0.76%.
- One fully erupted fourth molar was found distal to the third molar in a female skull, and another impacted fourth molar was located on the maxillary tuberosity of a younger female skull.
- No supernumerary fourth molars were observed in the examined lower jaw specimens.
Conclusions:
- Supernumerary molars appear to be rare in this population sample.
- Clinical and radiological examinations are recommended for a more accurate assessment of supernumerary tooth prevalence in the Zimbabwean population.