Enamel Hypoplasia

I want to give you some information on this topic, as I am seeing more children suffering with this condition. It can be a bit technical, but I wanted to give you some idea of what it is first, so....

The definition of enamel hypoplasia is this is a defect of the teeth in which the enamel is hard but thin and deficient in amount, caused by defective enamel matrix formation with a deficiency in the cementing substance. Usually the condition involves part of the tooth having a pit in it on the biting surface.

These are some examples of what this looks like in patient's teeth

Enamel Hypoplasia is a condition that results in having less enamel than normal. It can affect both baby and permanent teeth. Most of the time it happens before the age of three, when the enamel is still developing and more vulnerable to genetic or environmental factors.

Enamel Hypoplasia can look like a small dent or affect the size and shape of the entire tooth. The defect can also occur on multiple teeth. The appearance varies from white, yellow or brownish colour, with a rough surface. Patients sometimes experience sensitivity and are more susceptible to cavities.

Factors such as infection or fever during pregnancy, premature birth, vitamin A, C or D deficiency, hereditary disorders and some medications taken during tooth formation can affect both baby and permanent teeth. Environmental factors include trauma to the teeth, fluorosis, and exposure to toxic chemicals at a young age.

Treatment options vary from sealing or bonding for less severe cases, to stainless steel crowns that protect more severe cases from sensitivity or wear. In some instances, extractions are necessary and can be replaced by a bridge or an implant.

Fortunately, mild cases of enamel hypoplasia can be controlled by practicing good oral hygiene habits, avoiding sugary foods and getting fluoride treatments. The treatment for Enamel Hypoplasia can vary from child to child, recently I have seen young children with hyoplastic enamel in their first permanent molars, these havent been too severe, so treatment has involved fissure sealants at this stage, fluoride treatment and seeing the patient every six months.

It is really important for your child to start seeing a dentist from the age of 2-3, as if problems such as hypoplastic enamel does occur, then the child is used to the dentist for treatment to be carried out.