A combination of kissing molars, maxillary bilateral supernumerary teeth and macrodontia: a rare case report

Abstract

BackgroundSupernumerary teeth (ST) is defined as an additional number of teeth compared to the normal dental formula. The prevalence rate of ST varies from 0.5 to 3.8% in the permanent dentition. When ST located distal to the third molar is acclaimed as distomolar. Moreover, kissing molar is an extremely scarce condition of distomolars, pointed in the opposite direction in a single follicular space. Meanwhile, macrodontia is also a rare shape anomaly characterized by a large crown and tapering root.Case presentationA 22-year-old Chinese man presented a combination of kissing molars, maxillary bilateral supernumerary teeth and macrodontia. Radiographically, two maxillary bilateral distomolars located at the buccal side of adjacent third molars. One mandibular distomolar with the adjacent third molar was contacted by occlusal surfaces while roots were pointed oppositely, which could be diagnosed as KM. Furthermore, the left mandibular third molar can be inferred to be a macrodontia, characterized by a large crown and tapering root. After a thorough investigation, we excluded the possibilities of systemic diseases and genetic inheritance. However, the etiology of this rare combination deserves to be further explored.ConclusionThe combination of kissing molars, maxillary bilateral supernumerary teeth and macrodontia is very rare, especially presented in the patient with no syndromes. As there were no complications with these conditions, long-term observation has been recommended for the patient. In addition, the true etiology need a further exploration.