What are supernumerary teeth?

Supernumerary teeth refer to additional teeth that develop beyond the normal count of 32 in adults. This condition can occur in various locations within the dental arch and can take on various shapes and sizes. Supernumerary teeth can arise due to genetic factors or developmental disturbances during tooth formation. Their presence may lead to complications such as crowding, impaction of adjacent teeth, and issues with occlusion or alignment.

In contrast, the other choices describe different dental concepts. Treatment for periodontal disease pertains to various methods used to manage gum health, which does not correlate with the idea of having extra teeth. Teeth developing incorrectly indicates issues related to development but does not specifically identify the presence of additional teeth. Misalignment of teeth refers to issues with positioning rather than the number of teeth present. Understanding what supernumerary teeth are is crucial for recognizing their implications in dental health.