Enamel, the protective, hard outer layer of teeth. In other words, it’s the white part of teeth people see when a person smiles. It’s mostly made of mineral-based compounds created by a person’s body during the process of creating their teeth. Sometimes, when enamel forms; there can be a “glitch.” This glitch in the process causes the weakness in a person’s teeth. One of the “glitches” that can occur during the enamel formation is called enamel hypoplasia.
What is Enamel Hypoplasia?
Enamel hypoplasia is a deficiency that increases the chances of tooth decay and damage. The decay and damage often occurs in the pits, grooves or lines within the tooth. It can also develop in certain spots on the tooth or across the tooth’s surface. There are two types of enamel hypoplasia: environmental enamel hypoplasia and hereditary enamel hypoplasia. Each of the hypoplasia types has different causes. Environmental enamel hypoplasia is caused by factors such as malnutrition, premature birth and viral infections. However, hereditary enamel hypoplasia is caused by an inherited genetic defect- this is the glitch in the enamel formation.
The Signs and Symptoms of Enamel Hypoplasia
Some of the enamel hypoplasia signs are obvious such as the pits and grooves in the teeth. Signs also include yellowish-brown stains that develop underneath the layer of exposed dentin. Irregular wearing of teeth is also an issue. Other symptoms of enamel hypoplasia are not visible such as the retention of harmful bacteria, this means that the bacteria that a person would remove when they brush their teeth remains on their enamel instead. The acids in drinks and food also damage the enamel. Sensitivity to cold and hot food and drink, cavities, and crumbling teeth are also a symptom of enamel hypoplasia.
How it Affects Daily Life
Enamel hypoplasia can affect a person’s daily life in many ways. For instance, an individual may experience pain when consuming food or drinks because of their cold or heat sensitivity. The biggest impact on one’s daily life is not smiling because of the appearance of teeth, which can severely negatively impact one’s confidence.
Treatment Options
Treatment options are based on many factors like the severity of the condition, age and location of the hypoplasia. For example, if a child’s tooth has limited hypoplasia, a dentist may suggest placing a composite material, called a veneer, over them. The synthetic enamel protects the tooth against bacteria and covers the bare spots in the enamel. If an adult has hypoplasia in on their back teeth such as their molars, a dentist may recommend a crown.
In situations where the enamel hypoplasia is considered mild, with slight discoloration of the teeth, then a dentist may suggest bleaching. With bleaching, each affected tooth is whitened so that it is the same color as a person’s white, healthy teeth. This bleaching process may occur regularly because the initial treatment tends to fade and causes the affected tooth to develop the yellowish stain.
In the more advanced situations of enamel hypoplasia, a dentist may suggest the removal of the affected tooth. In this situation, the tooth is replaced with a dental implant or bridge. The purpose of removing the affected tooth and replacing it with a bridge or implant is to prevent other teeth from shifting or else it may result in a crooked smile or misaligned teeth.
Other Important Information
Prevention is the key to stopping enamel hypoplasia caused by environmental factors. For example, adding supplements such as Vitamin A or D to a person’s diet can strengthen developing teeth. Increasing a person’s consumption of milk can also help prevent enamel hypoplasia. To keep teeth as healthy as possible, brush teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush. Avoid sugary and acidic drinks and foods. However, if sugary and acidic foods and drinks must be consumed, immediately brush teeth afterwards.
Visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre for Help with Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel is the hardest substance in your body. Unfortunately, it doesn’t contain any living cells. This means that if you suffer from enamel hypoplasia, your tooth enamel can’t repair itself on its own. If you or your child has enamel hypoplasia, make sure you visit the Upper Hunt Club Dental Centre in Ottawa to have your teeth monitored. This way your dentist can work quickly to repair any potential problems. Contact us today to book an appointment if you suspect that you or your child may have enamel hypoplasia.
