Definition: A tooth that is significantly larger than average for its type.
Radiographic Features:
- Location: Can affect any tooth in the oral cavity
- Edge: Well-defined
- Shape: Enlarged tooth structure, maintaining normal tooth morphology
- Internal structure:
- Radiopaque: Enamel and dentin (larger than normal)
- Radiolucent: Pulp chamber and root canal
- Number: May be single or multiple teeth affected
Key points:
- Less common than microdontia
- Can affect primary or permanent dentition
- May be associated with certain syndromes or occur in isolation
Clinical significance:
- Can cause crowding and malocclusion
- May lead to aesthetic concerns
- Potential difficulty in restorative treatments due to size
- Can complicate orthodontic treatment planning
Note: Differentiate from fusion or gemination, which can also present as enlarged teeth. In macrodontia, the tooth structure is uniformly enlarged while maintaining normal morphology.