Cause of new teeth growing beside old teeth in children
The phenomenon you're referring to is called "supernumerary teeth" or "extra teeth." It's a relatively common condition, especially in children. Here are some possible causes:
- Genetic inheritance: Supernumerary teeth can be inherited from one's parents. Research suggests that the condition is more common in families with a history of extra teeth.
- Developmental abnormalities: During tooth development, the formation of teeth is a complex process. Sometimes, extra teeth can develop due to abnormalities in the formation of the dental lamina, which is the tissue that gives rise to teeth.
- Tooth germ duplication: In some cases, a tooth germ (the precursor to a tooth) can duplicate, resulting in the growth of an extra tooth.
- Hormonal influences: Hormonal changes during fetal development or early childhood can affect tooth formation, leading to the growth of extra teeth.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, such as pesticides or heavy metals, during fetal development or early childhood may contribute to the development of supernumerary teeth.
In children, supernumerary teeth are more common in the following situations:
- Primary teeth: Supernumerary primary teeth are more common than permanent teeth. They often appear in the upper front teeth (incisors) or lower front teeth (canines).
- Mixed dentition: During the transition from primary to permanent teeth (mixed dentition), the risk of supernumerary teeth is higher.
- Genetic syndromes: Certain genetic syndromes, such as Gardner's syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, or cleidocranial dysplasia, are associated with an increased risk of supernumerary teeth.
In most cases, supernumerary teeth are harmless and do not cause any problems. However, they can sometimes lead to issues such as:
- Crowding: Extra teeth can cause crowding of the surrounding teeth, which may lead to orthodontic problems.
- Impaction: Supernumerary teeth can become impacted, which means they do not erupt properly and can cause pain, swelling, or infection.
- Dental caries: Extra teeth can increase the risk of dental caries (tooth decay) due to the additional surfaces that can trap plaque and bacteria.
If you suspect that your child has supernumerary teeth, it's essential to consult with a pediatric dentist or orthodontist for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.