Supernumerary teeth are extra teeth that develop in addition to the normal number of teeth and act as a direct mechanical obstruction disrupting the normal eruption and alignment of adjacent teeth. This localized interference causes crowding, displacement, or delayed eruption, leading to malocclusion. Unlike systemic factors, supernumerary teeth exert a localized impact on dental arches, making them a primary local cause of malocclusion. Surgical removal of these teeth is often necessary to restore proper alignment and function.

Reference: Neville et al., Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th Edition.