Supernumerary teeth refers to a common dental condition wherein extra teeth grow inside the mouth. Also called hyperdontia, these extra teeth can grow anywhere in the curved areas (dental arches) where teeth attach to the jaw line. The prevalence of this dental condition is twice as common in adult males than in adult females. In fact, the majority of cases of supernumerary teeth appear as a single tooth, but sometimes multiple teeth are present, appearing separately or in clusters. The exact factors that cause this dental condition are not fully known. However, researchers say that a combination of several hereditary factors and birth defects can contribute to this condition. Billing and coding for this specific dental condition can be challenging. Reliable dental billing services provided by AAPC-certified coding specialists can help in accurate and timely billing and claims submission.
Symptoms of Supernumerary Teeth
As mentioned above, supernumerary teeth can appear anywhere in the mouth and are mostly found among the permanent teeth. However, they also occur among baby teeth, but tend to be harder to identify, as they often erupt normally, are shaped like other teeth, and are in correct alignment. This dental condition is classified by way of shape and by way of location. The sudden growth of extra teeth directly behind or close to the usual primary or permanent teeth is one of the primary symptoms of this dental disorder. The extra teeth can appear in anyone but are more often associated with people who have Gardner’s syndrome (a rare genetic disorder), Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Cleidocranial dysplasia, Fabry disease and those born with a cleft lip and palate.
Generally, the condition isn’t painful. However, in certain cases, it can put extra pressure on the jaw and gum lines, making them swollen and painful. If not treated properly, a variety of dental problems may develop, such as – tooth impaction, crowding, displacement, and misalignment of normal permanent teeth, premature closure of spaces in between the teeth, formation of oral cysts or tumors, eruption of teeth into the nasal cavity and issues with proper chewing. Overcrowding caused by this condition can make permanent teeth look crooked.
Diagnosing and Treating Supernumerary Teeth
Diagnosis of this dental disorder is quite easy if the extra teeth have already grown. However, if they have not grown in fully, diagnosing can be quite difficult. In such cases, imaging tests such as – dental X-rays and CT scans may be performed for a more detailed analysis of the mouth, jaw, and teeth. Certain cases of hyperdontia do not require any specific treatment, while other cases involve removing the extra teeth. For instance, if the extra teeth is affecting a person’s dental hygiene or causing other problems such as – chewing problems, pain or discomfort while brushing /flossing teeth, or delaying the eruption of permanent teeth, it is better to remove them.
Treatment for this dental disorder depends on the type and position of the supernumerary teeth and how it affects the adjacent teeth. If the extra teeth cause only mild discomfort, the dentist may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain. Other treatment modalities include – removal of the teeth when possible (performed under local or general anesthesia). In certain other cases, supernumerary teeth may need to be cut and then removed in pieces. Endodontic treatment (also known as a root canal) may also be done to treat the tooth pulp as well as surrounding tissues.
ICD-10 Codes for Supernumerary Teeth
The treatment modalities and other screening tests performed by dentists, orthodontists, and other dental specialists must be carefully documented using the correct medical codes. Billing and coding services provided by an established medical billing and coding company can help physicians use the correct codes for their billing purposes. ICD-10 codes for supernumerary teeth include –
- K00 Disorders of tooth development and eruption
- K00.0 Anodontia
- K00.1 Supernumerary teeth
- K00.2 Abnormalities of size and form of teeth
- K00.3 Mottled teeth
- K00.4 Disturbances in tooth formation
- K00.5 Hereditary disturbances in tooth structure, not elsewhere classified
- K00.6 Disturbances in tooth eruption
- K00.7 Teething syndrome
- K00.8 Other disorders of tooth development
- K00.9 Disorder of tooth development, unspecified
As mentioned above, most cases of supernumerary teeth do not require any specific treatment. In other cases, patients need to remove some or all of their extra teeth to avoid further problems. It is not necessary to remove natal teeth unless the supernumerary teeth are loose and present a risk for aspiration due to passage into the lung.
Amber Darst is our Solutions Manager in the Healthcare Division, Practice and RCM. With a rich background in dental services, her expertise ranges from insurance coordination to office management.