Dental anomaly

Dental anomalies refer to deviations from the normal number, size, shape, or structure of teeth. These anomalies can occur due to genetic factors, environmental influences, or a combination of both. They often impact the aesthetics, functionality, and overall health of the oral cavity.

Types of Dental Anomalies

Number Anomalies

Anodontia

• Hypodontia: The developmental absence of one or more teeth, excluding the third molars, which is the most common form.
• Oligodontia: The absence of six or more teeth, excluding third molars.
• Anodontia: A rare congenital absence of all primary or permanent teeth.

Size Anomalies

• Microdontia: When a tooth is smaller than usual, this can affect a single tooth or multiple teeth.
• Macrodontia: When a tooth is larger than normal; it is less common than microdontia.

Shape Anomalies

• Dens invaginatus: A tooth with a deep invagination that can lead to caries or pulp disease due to the difficulty in cleaning.
• Dens evaginatus: A tooth with an extra cusp that typically occurs on the occlusal surface.
• Talon cusp: A prominent accessory cusp on the palatal surface of incisors.
• Fusion: The union of two normally separated tooth germs.
• Gemination: "Twinning" within a single tooth germ resulting in a large, single tooth that has two completely or incompletely separated crowns.

Structure Anomalies

• Amelogenesis imperfecta: A disorder affecting enamel formation.
• Dentinogenesis imperfecta: A condition characterized by abnormal dentin formation that affects all teeth.
• Enamel hypoplasia: The incomplete or faulty development of enamel, which can result from nutritional deficiencies, illness, or trauma.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of dental anomalies typically involves clinical examination, dental x-rays, and genetic testing if a hereditary condition is suspected. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the anomaly and may include restorative dentistry, orthodontics, or in some cases, dental surgery.

Epidemiology

The prevalence of dental anomalies varies widely among populations and is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Hypodontia is one of the most common anomalies, affecting between 3-10% of the population.

See Also

• Pediatric dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Oral surgery