Imaging analysis of 1 138 supernumerary teeth by using cone-beam computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Dental Anomalies

Background:

• Supernumerary teeth are a common dental anomaly, potentially causing impaction, malocclusion, and other complications.
• Accurate characterization of supernumerary teeth is crucial for effective clinical management.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) offers detailed 3D imaging for dental diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and summarize the demographic and radiographic characteristics of supernumerary teeth.
• To evaluate the utility of CBCT in diagnosing and planning treatment for supernumerary teeth.
• To investigate associations between supernumerary teeth characteristics and patient factors like age, gender, and jaw location.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 1,138 supernumerary teeth in 718 patients.
• Statistical analysis of age, gender, number, location, morphology, eruption status, and symptoms.
• Evaluation of relationships between supernumerary teeth and jaws, gender, and eruption status using CBCT data.

Main Results:

• Supernumerary teeth were most frequent in the upper incisor region (85.76%), typically conical (most common morphology), and largely unerupted (86.20%).
• A male predilection (2.88:1 ratio) was observed, with higher incidence in the incisor region among males.
• Significant differences in eruption status, morphology, root development, and impact on adjacent structures were noted between jaws and between erupted/unerupted teeth (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

• CBCT provides accurate 3D radiographic data essential for diagnosing and planning treatment for supernumerary teeth.
• Understanding the characteristics and prevalence of supernumerary teeth aids in clinical decision-making.
• Further research can explore specific management strategies based on detailed CBCT findings.