I denti soprannumerari

Objectives: The paper calls attention to the phenomenon of supernumerary teeth, one of the most common anomalies involving the number of teeth, and examines its association with delayed eruption of the permanent incisors. Materials and methods: The literature on supernumerary teeth was analyzed to identify hypotheses on the cause of the phenomenon, classification of supernumerary teeth, and complications that can occur. In most cases, a supernumerary tooth in the anterior maxilla is responsible for altering the eruption of the permanent incisors, which may even become impacted. This article reviews diagnostic tools and options for the management of supernumerary teeth. Results and Conclusions: Early diagnosis and management with conservative surgery and appropriate orthodontic treatment can minimize the potential complications caused by supernumerary teeth and successfully reposition the permanent incisors. Treatment failure can be caused by insufficient bone removal during surgical exposure, application of excessive traction, ankylosis of the impacted tooth, or negative prognostic factors. © 2010 Elsevier Srl. All rights reserved.