Three-dimensional evaluations of supernumerary teeth using cone-beam computed tomography for 487 cases

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

Background:

• Supernumerary teeth are a common dental anomaly.
• Accurate diagnosis and treatment planning are crucial for managing supernumerary teeth.
• Traditional imaging methods may have limitations in visualizing complex dental anatomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate the utility of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) for the assessment of supernumerary teeth.
• To analyze the characteristics and prevalence of supernumerary teeth using CBCT.
• To assess the ability of CBCT to visualize surrounding dental and skeletal structures.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 487 patients with 626 supernumerary teeth were examined using CBCT.
• Patient demographics, number, location, shape, and 3D position of supernumeraries were analyzed.
• CBCT's visualization of dental and skeletal structures relative to supernumeraries was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Supernumerary teeth were more prevalent in males (2.64:1 ratio).
• The anterior maxilla was the most common location (92%), with conical shapes being most frequent (83.5%).
• CBCT provided accurate 3D visualization; 43.4% of premaxillary supernumeraries were inverted and 21.1% transversely oriented.

Conclusions:

• CBCT imaging provides precise 3D visualization of supernumerary teeth and adjacent structures.
• This imaging modality is highly beneficial for the pretreatment evaluation of supernumerary teeth.
• CBCT aids in understanding the spatial relationship of supernumerary teeth to surrounding anatomy, facilitating treatment planning.