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Unfortunately, some oral health conditions are simply out of your control no matter how much you brush and floss. Certain teeth issues may arise that require professional treatment – and you may not even know about them. Luckily, these rare oral health problems can easily be treated by your dentist. Read on to learn of a few unusual tooth disorders you’ve probably never heard of.

Anodontia

Anodontia is a rare genetic disorder that refers to the absence of some or all the teeth. While it can affect baby teeth, it’s typically more common with adult teeth. In most cases, patients have partial anodontia in which one or more teeth are missing, but others have formed. Although it’s rare, some people have complete anodontia, meaning none of the adult teeth developed.

Usually, this condition is diagnosed when a baby hasn’t developed teeth by 13 months or when a child hasn’t developed adult teeth by ten years old. Since this is a genetic disorder, it cannot be reversed or cured. Luckily, dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants are popular treatment options that improve a person’s ability to eat, speak, and breathe.

Talon Cusps

Talon cusps affect 0.04 to 8 percent of the population, making it an extremely rare condition. It refers to the conical-like growth that develops at the back of one of the teeth. It can cause several oral health problems, such as malocclusion, gum irritation, plaque accumulation, and more. Since the cusp may or may not contain tooth pulp, dentists have to treat them carefully. The most common treatment method is to grind the cusps down. However, if they contain pulp, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment.

Tooth Gemination

Tooth gemination occurs when two teeth develop from a single bud, causing an extra-large or disfigured tooth with two chambers of tooth pulp and only one root. This condition can cause a misaligned bite, tooth decay in the area where the chambers join, and overcrowding in the mouth. Since gemination varies from person to person, your dentist will recommend treatment based on your case. Some patients might need sealants and fillings to prevent bacteria buildup, while others may need shaping and crowns.

Hyperdontia

Hyperdontia, also known as supernumerary teeth, is a condition that refers to having too many teeth. Mild cases involve only one to two teeth popping up. Since they develop in the gum, they can delay the eruption of other teeth and cause overcrowding and crooked eruption. Treatment options include tooth extraction and orthodontic treatment. But because most cases require little to no dental attention, your dentist may suggest waiting and seeing if there are any complications.

Even though these rare oral health problems are unpredictable, they can be treated promptly to ensure your smile remains happy and healthy!