Overeruption

Overeruption is a dental condition characterized by the excessive eruption of a tooth or teeth beyond the line of occlusion. This condition can occur due to a variety of reasons, including loss of opposing teeth, periodontal disease, or abnormal oral habits. Overeruption can lead to various complications such as occlusal interference, aesthetic issues, and periodontal problems.

Causes

The primary cause of overeruption is the loss of opposing teeth. When a tooth loses its opposing counterpart, it tends to move or erupt into the vacant space. This is a natural response of the tooth to maintain contact and function.

Periodontal disease is another common cause of overeruption. In periodontal disease, the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone, are progressively destroyed. This loss of support can lead to the overeruption of the affected teeth.

Abnormal oral habits, such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and clenching, can also contribute to overeruption. These habits can exert excessive forces on the teeth, leading to their overeruption.

Complications

Overeruption can lead to several complications. One of the most common is occlusal interference, where the overerupted tooth interferes with the normal bite. This can cause discomfort, difficulty in chewing, and even changes in the facial profile.

Aesthetic issues are another common complication of overeruption. The overerupted tooth can appear longer than the adjacent teeth, leading to an uneven smile line. This can affect a person's self-esteem and confidence.

Overeruption can also lead to periodontal problems. The overerupted tooth can be more susceptible to plaque accumulation and gum disease due to its abnormal position.

Treatment

The treatment of overeruption depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In cases where the overeruption is caused by the loss of opposing teeth, the placement of a dental prosthesis such as a bridge or implant can help to restore the normal occlusion.

In cases of periodontal disease, treatment will focus on managing the disease and preventing further overeruption. This may involve scaling and root planing, surgical intervention, and the use of periodontal splints.

For overeruption caused by abnormal oral habits, behavior modification techniques and the use of occlusal splints can be beneficial.

Orthodontic treatment may also be necessary in some cases to reposition the overerupted tooth and restore the normal occlusion.

See also

• Dental eruption
• Tooth loss
• Periodontal disease
• Bruxism

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