HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

Which dental condition is characterized by the presence of too many teeth?

1. Hypodontia

2. Hyperdontia

3. Agalactia

4. Oligodontia

The correct answer is: Hyperdontia

Hyperdontia is the dental condition characterized by the presence of too many teeth beyond the normal complement, which is typically 32 in adults. This condition can result in the development of supernumerary teeth that can cause crowding, misalignment, or impaction of the other teeth. In contrast, hypodontia refers to the condition of having fewer teeth than usual, which can lead to gaps and potential functional issues. Agalactia is unrelated to teeth and refers to the absence of milk production in nursing mammals. Oligodontia is a specific type of hypodontia where six or more teeth are missing. Each of these conditions highlights various scenarios concerning tooth count, making hyperdontia the only one focused on an excess.