Surgical extraction of supernumerary teeth in a pediatric patient.

Clinical case

Abstract

Introduction.  Supernumerary teeth are a common alteration in the development of children's dental health. They are defined as additional pieces beyond the normal number of teeth. Their morphology varies, with conical, tuberculated, and supplementary shapes being the most common. Although the exact cause is not known, it is associated with hyperactivity of the dental lamina during embryonic stages. The decision to extract the supernumerary tooth or to keep it depends on multiple factors, including its shape, location, functional impact, and relationship with adjacent anatomical structures. When the additional tooth prevents the eruption of the permanent tooth, surgical extraction is considered the treatment of choice. Case report. A 6-year-old male patient comes for a dental consultation. Upon observing the panoramic x-ray, two abnormal masses can be identified between the temporary central incisors and the germs of the permanent teeth. The tomography confirms the presence of two supernumerary teeth, one in a transverse position and another in a coronal direction. Due to the age and complexity of the case, a multidisciplinary approach is indicated. The intervention of a maxillofacial surgeon for extraction is requested. Conclusion. Supernumerary teeth represent a frequent, multifactorial, and potentially disruptive entity for the normal development of dentition in children. Their early diagnosis, along with an interdisciplinary approach, is essential to ensure proper functional and aesthetic evolution.