AMELOGENESIS

IMPERFECTA

By: Janine R. Rumbaoa

a disorder of tooth development

condition causes teeth to be unusually small, discolored, pitted or grooved, and prone to rapid wear and breakage. these defects, which vary among affected individuals, can affect both primary (baby) teeth and permanent teeth.

How common is amelogenesis imperfecta?The exact incidence of amelogenesis imperfecta is uncertain. Estimates vary widely, from 1 in 700 people in northern Sweden to 1 in 14,000 people in the United States.

presents with abnormal formation of the enamel or external layer of teeth.

due to the malfunction of the proteins in the enamel: ameloblastin, enamelin, tuftelin and amelogenin.

People afflicted with amelogenesis imperfecta have teeth with abnormal color: yellow, brown or grey. The teeth have a higher risk for dental cavities and are hypersensitive to temperature changes. This disorder can afflict any number of teeth.

GENES RELATED TO A.I.

Mutations in the AMELX, ENAM, and MMP20 genes cause amelogenesis imperfecta.

SYMPTOMS

The enamel of the tooth is soft and thin. The teeth appear yellow and are easily damaged. Both baby teeth and permanent teeth are affected.

TREATMENT X-ray showing lack of enamel opacity

and a pathological loss of enamel in patient with amelogenesis imperfecta

Full crowns are sometimes being used to compensate for the soft enamel.Usually stainless steel crowns are used in children which may be replaced by porcelain once they reach adulthood. In the worst case scenario, the teeth may have to be extracted and implants or dentures are required.