Indian woman, 26, sets Guinness World Record for most number of teeth

The mother of one has 38 teeth in her mouth. (Image: Guinness World Records)

An Indian woman with 38 teeth in her mouth has set the Guinness World Record (GWR) for the highest number of teeth in a female’s mouth. Kalpana Balan, 26, surpasses the typical adult count by six.

According to GWR, the mother of one has four extra mandibular (lower jaw) teeth and two extra maxillary (upper jaw) teeth. She experienced the growth of her extra teeth during her teenage years. Balan did not experience any pain but faced challenges while eating food as some bits became trapped within additional teeth. When her parents discovered the additional set, they were “shocked” and suggested that she go for an extraction.

However, her dentist suggested that she wait until the teeth grow out more so that they could be removed easily.

“Kalpana Balan from India has six more teeth than the average human,” read the caption of a post by GWR.

Kalpana Balan from India has six more teeth than the average human.

Read more by clicking the picture

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— Guinness World Records (@GWR) November 20, 2023

Balan decided to keep the teeth just as they were as she feared going through the procedure. After achieving the world record, she is pleased with her decision. “I am so happy to get the Guinness World Records title,” she said. “It’s my lifetime achievement.”

Moreover, Balan has two more teeth that have not come out yet. If they do, she would be able to extend her record in future.

The male record holder is Evano Mellone (Canada) who has 41 teeth.

The medical term for having extra teeth is called hyperdontia or polydontia. Up to 3.8% of the world’s population have one or more supernumerary teeth, GWR mentioned.

Hyperdontia is caused due to malfunction in the tooth formation process. However, its exact cause is not known.