Amelogenesis Imperfecta: Causes, Effects, and Treatment

Certain substances help form the enamel, which is the outermost layer of the teeth. The enamel functions as teeth’s protective shell, defending them against various factors such as bacteria. Without this covering, inner parts of the human teeth are more susceptible to damage. A genetic disorder known as amelogenesis imperfecta alters the development of the enamel, making the teeth’s structure weak. Enamelin and amelogenin are some of the genes responsible for proper tooth development. When these elements are mutated, a person’s dental structure is likely to manifest the changes. Amelogenesis imperfecta is passed on as an autosomal dominant trait, which means that just one copy of the abnormal gene is what it takes to transmit the disease. This makes the condition potentially more threatening compared to other recessive types of inheritance. In Colorado Springs, Colorado, dentists conduct many procedures that can hide the effects of this condition. The condition itself is irreversible, but its effects can be remedied using dental restoratives such as bridges and implants. Depending on the severity of the problem, a dentist can use surgical and non-surgical procedures to treat teeth that are affected. Colorado Springs dentistry considers this defect as a rare occurrence, because only 1 in 14,000 people in the United States acquire the disease. Although the disorder is rare, it should still be a cause for concern, because it can bring serious effects such as teeth discoloration and weakening. According to Colorado Springs dentistry, a tooth’s natural color ranges from yellow to brown. Enamel is the only material that makes the teeth appear white, which is why the absence of enamel gives the teeth a discolored appearance. Enamel is also responsible for determining a tooth’s shape and size. Without enamel, teeth can have irregular figures, making them visually unappealing. There are four main types of amelogenesis imperfecta diagnosed by experts Colorado Springs dentistry. However, the condition also has other subtypes that are categorized according to their appearance and method of inheritance. The four main categories of amelogenesis imperfecta are hypoplastic, hypomaturation, hypocalcified, and a combination of two of these types. It is important to regularly consult a dentist to anticipate this disorder’s development, especially if one of your parents happens to suffer from this particular condition.