Tooth enamel is the hardest substance in the human body, comprised of 96 percent minerals. What happens when teeth are lacking in enamel?
Basic Tooth Anatomy
For a quick visual, a tooth is formed with three hard tissues.
- Enamel: Outer, most protective tooth layer; what you see when you look at a tooth
- Dentin: Layer beneath the enamel consisting of living tissue and tubules that communicate with the tooth’s nerve
- Cementum: Calcified connective tissue along the tooth’s pulp that helps anchor the tooth and protect the root
Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel hypoplasia is a defect in tooth enamel, causing teeth to have a lesser quantity or thinner layer of enamel. Hypoplasia can occur in both baby and permanent teeth. The condition, if left untreated, can worsen over time.
There are two types of enamel hypoplasia: hereditary and environmental. Hereditary hypoplasia consists of a defect that occurs while the teeth are developing. This makes young children susceptible to the condition. On the other hand, environmental hypoplasia can result from the following: certain medications, chemical exposure, childhood diseases, infections, malnutrition, prematurity, and vitamin deficiencies.
Signs & Symptoms
The classic signs of hypoplasia are white spots or yellow/brown discoloration, and it can appear as dents or pits in the teeth. Tooth sensitivity is a painful symptom of hypoplasia. A thin layer of enamel can make your teeth sensitive to hot and cold sensations. Perhaps the most worrisome symptom is excessive tooth decay, which can lead to tooth loss, since teeth with poor quality or less enamel are at higher risk for cavities.
Treatment
Enamel hypoplasia can vary in severity. Cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening are typically able to improve the appearance of white spots and discoloration. For milder cases, normal maintenance and proper oral hygiene are good enough in addition to paying close attention to the problem area(s). In more severe cases, teeth may require a crowns, fillings, or sealants to protect from further damage
The following cosmetic treatments can reduce or remove spots and discoloration:
- Bonding: Covering the tooth with tooth-colored resins
- Microabrasion: Abrading the tooth’s surface and whitening the it
- Veneers: Applying a thin shell of material such as porcelain to the entire tooth surface
Enamel hypoplasia is difficult to prevent, especially if it’s hereditary. If it stems from environmental factors, taking Vitamin A and D supplements can help strengthen teeth. Eating a diet that includes leafy green vegetables and dairy can also be beneficial.
If you have any questions or concerns about enamel hypoplasia, call us at 954-344-4488, or complete an online appointment request to schedule your consultation.