Oral Health and Genetic Risk Factors

Genetic Dental Anomalies You Should See Your Dentist About

Dental visits typically come about due to common oral problems such as cavities, trauma to teeth and more. However, there are some dental anomalies that are genetic and that people tend to overlook since they have had them from birth or from their formative years. The good news is that a range of genetic dental disorders can be easily remedied by your dentist if you simply have a consultation with them regarding your individual dental problem. Here are some of the genetic dental anomalies that you should see your dentist about.

The development of anodontia or hypodontia

Anodontia is a genetic disorder that is characterised by teeth that are missing congenitally. This condition is hereditary. Your baby teeth may have developed, but once they fall off you may not grow back all your missing teeth. In the event that all teeth do not grow for an individual, the condition is referred to as anodontia. On the other hand, if just a few permanent teeth do not erupt, then the condition is referred to as hypodontia. The severity of anodontia and hypodontia could have an adverse effect on the development of your jaws. Without teeth, your jaws could gradually suffer from bone loss and this could lead to a myriad of other health conditions. To avoid the complications that come with anodontia and hypodontia, it would be best to seek tooth replacement treatment options from your dentist.

The development of amelogenesis imperfecta

Amelogenesis imperfecta is a genetic disorder that hinders the proper formation of enamel. If you are suffering from this congenital disorder, you will either experience a lack of hardening of your tooth enamel or a decreased production of the enamel. This puts your teeth at risk of damage from mild trauma as they do not have a hard surface protecting them. This could lead to tooth loss, susceptibility to cavities and more. If you are suffering from amelogenesis imperfecta, your dentist can opt for dental treatments to remedy it such as the use of crowns or porcelain veneers to ensure that the surfaces of your teeth are protected.

The development of supernumerary teeth

Supernumerary teeth refer to extra permanent teeth that erupt. Typically, these extra teeth tend to be abnormally shaped and can erupt anywhere on your jawbone. Supernumerary teeth can cause problems with the spacing of your teeth and can have an adverse effect on your overall bite. Leaving them unchecked could also lead to displacement of your regular teeth, hence changing the entire appearance of your smile. Your dentist will typically opt to extract these teeth before they get a chance to fully mature. 


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