Bilateral maxillary and mandibular fourth molars: a case report and literature review

J Investig Clin Dent. 2011 Nov;2(4):296-9. doi: 10.1111/j.2041-1626.2011.00075.x. Epub 2011 Jun 24.

Abstract

Supernumerary teeth are those present in addition to the normal set of teeth. These teeth are found in both the primary and the permanent dentitions, and are most frequently seen in the maxillary anterior and molar regions. Supernumerary molars are divided into two types, depending on their location: distomolars and paramolars. Distomolars usually occur in the form of a fourth molar distal to the third molar, while paramolars are rudimentary supernumerary teeth that might develop buccally or lingually to the molar series. The management of a supernumerary tooth should be part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This paper reports a rare case of a male patient with bilateral maxillary and mandibular fourth molars, and reviews the literature on supernumerary teeth.

Keywords: fourth molar; maxillary; permanent dentition; supernumerary teeth; surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mandible / pathology
  • Maxilla / pathology
  • Molar, Third / diagnostic imaging
  • Radiography, Panoramic / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Tooth, Impacted / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tooth, Supernumerary / diagnostic imaging*
  • Young Adult