What Your Dentist Wants You to Know About Supra Eruption

When it comes to oral health, most of us are familiar with common issues such as cavities, gum disease and misalignment. However, there are lesser-known problems that can significantly impact both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. One such issue is supra eruption, or overeruption of teeth, which occurs when a tooth grows longer than its normal size - either upwards or downwards - leading to a cascade of dental concerns. In this article, we delve into the details of supra eruption, its causes, effects, and the importance of timely intervention.

The Mechanism of Supra Eruption

At By The Lake Dental, our dentists and dental team recognise that the concept behind supra eruption is quite intriguing. In a healthy mouth, neighbouring teeth exert pressure on each other, maintaining their position and alignment. When a tooth is lost and not replaced, this balance is disrupted. The unreplaced tooth no longer provides the pressure required to keep the adjacent tooth in check. Consequently, the unrestrained tooth begins to move in the direction it was meant to oppose, resulting in supra eruption.

The Visible Impact

At our dental office, we often see that one of the most immediate effects of supra eruption is the altered appearance of the tooth. As it grows longer, it can appear disproportionately larger than the surrounding teeth, which can significantly impact the aesthetics of your smile and cause self-consciousness and hesitance to show off your teeth. However, supra eruption isn’t just a cosmetic concern. The overextended tooth exposes not only the crown - the visible part of the tooth - but also some of its root. Unlike the crown, the root is not as well-protected and is more susceptible to decay, putting the affected tooth at a higher risk of developing cavities and other forms of tooth decay.

The Implications for Oral Health

If left untreated, supra eruption can lead to a series of dental complications. At By The Lake Dental, our dentists explain that the misalignment caused by overeruption can disrupt your bite, leading to discomfort while chewing and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues. Additionally, the exposed root becomes a prime target for bacteria, increasing the likelihood of root decay and gum problems. Moreover, the movement of teeth due to supra eruption can create gaps between teeth, which can further facilitate the accumulation of food particles and plaque, contributing to cavities and gum disease.

The Solution: Timely Intervention

The key to preventing and addressing supra eruption lies in timely intervention. If you’ve lost a tooth, it’s crucial to explore tooth replacement options - such as dental implants, bridges or dentures - at our dental clinic. By restoring the missing tooth, you can maintain the equilibrium of forces within your mouth, preventing neighbouring teeth from supra erupting. 

For those already experiencing supra eruption, as soon as possible, book an appointment at By The Lake Dental, your favourite dental office in Ajax and Scarborough. Our dentists can assess the extent of the issue and recommend appropriate treatment, which may involve reshaping the overerupted tooth, orthodontic interventions to correct misalignment, or restorative procedures to address any decay that may have occurred. By taking action to address supra eruption, you can safeguard your smile and maintain optimal oral health for years to come.

Why choose By The Lake Dental:

✅ +10 years caring for our community’s oral health needs

✅ A Platinum+ Invisalign dental office

✅ Direct billing to benefit provider

✅ Cutting-edge technology

✅ Full service family care

✅ Concierge experience

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Call us today: Ajax 905-428-2111, Highland Creek 416-284-828

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