What does Enamel Hypoplasia look like?
The tooth’s enamel is the hard, outermost layer of the tooth which is visible. The enamel helps protect the teeth, keeping them healthy and strong. It is common to begin noticing minor defects or discoloration on a child’s tooth. It is possible that you are beginning to notice a condition called enamel hypoplasia. Enamel hypoplasia is a defect which results in a lower amount of enamel compared to normal teeth which do not have the defect. The condition can give the teeth white spots, yellow to brown staining, pits, grooves and parts of the enamel which are thin, chipped or missing completely. Although it is rare, severe cases of enamel hypoplasia result in the enamel not developing whatsoever.
Due to the irregularities of the tooth’s surface, hypoplastic teeth are often at a greater risk for the following dental issues:
* Increased sensitivity to heat or cold
* Pain during routine use
* Prone to more severe wear from grinding or the teeth making contact
* Susceptible to acid attacks from the sugars found in many foods and drinks
* More likely to accumulate plaque and bacteria
* Prone to tooth decay
Parents who begin to notice a concerning area on their child’s teeth should make an appointment with the pediatric dentist for an examination. The dentist can evaluate the teeth and monitor the condition to determine if additional intervention is needed. Depending on the severity of the hypoplasia, There are various treatment options which can be used. The treatment options will also vary based on the child’s patience and ability to cooperate during the treatment. Some of the most common treatment options include protective sealants, a desensitizing agent, composite resin or a tooth-colored filling, crowns, and others. When the condition remains untreated, it can result in the formation of cavities. This can lead to pain, infection, and the loss of the tooth.
Fortunately, a baby or primary tooth with hypoplasia does not automatically result in an adult or secondary tooth with hypoplasia. This condition and the irregularities can take place before, during, or after the child is bone. The baby teeth and adult teeth develop at different times throughout the patient’s life.
The causes of enamel hypoplasia can vary quite drastically. Causes can range from genetics to environmental factors. The list is causes includes developmental conditions which are inherited, a vitamin deficiency, illness during pregnancy, and some types of medication taken by the mother before birth or given to the child when the teeth are developing. Additional causes for the condition include a preterm birth, low birthweight, tooth trauma, infection, malnutrition, systemic diseases, drug abuse, and smoking.
A good oral hygiene regimen is important for all patients, but especially critical for patients who have hypoplastic teeth. Good oral hygiene includes brushing the teeth at least twice each day using a toothpaste which contains fluoride. It also includes daily flossing and regular visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. During the appointment, the dentist may also suggest the use of a fluoride application. All patients, including children, should avoid consuming large amounts of sugar. Patients should eat a balanced and nutritious diet.