Causes and risk factors
Hypodontia can be isolated or can be associated with certain other medical conditions. It is commonly caused due to certain genetic factors. It is said to be an inherited autosomal condition or it can be in an autosomal recessive pattern. Mutation in gene PAX9, MSX1, DLX, LHX occur. More recently, studies have shown that involvement of genes AXIN2, EDA, EAARADDEDARADD, LTBP3 and WNT10A are also been seen to be responsible. Hypodontia can be associated with certain other underlying conditions like Down’s syndrome, craniosynostosiscarniosynostosis, oral oral-facial clefting syndromes, etc.
Clinical presentation:
The patient suffering from this condition does not suffer from any physical complaints, ; however, it can be a matter of worry from a cosmetic point of view. The patients come up with complaints of missing of teeth. Usually one or more teeth are missing. The permanent teeth are more commonly affected. Third molar, lateral incisors, premolars, and mandibular second premolar are the common teeth to be missing.
Investigations:
Clinical examination carried out by the dentist is usually sufficient to diagnose the case; however, along with this an oral x-ray can also be advised. Genetic counseling is needed. Genetic antenatal diagnosis can also be performed; however, this test is rarely advised.
Treatment:
A long long-term treatment and regular dental checkups are needed in this condition. Use of orthodontic and prosthetic dentures are advised. Dental implantation can be done. Along with this, maintenance of oral hygiene is a must. Use of fluoride toothpaste is suggested along with adequate intake of water and nutritious diet. Use of new therapy which consists of recombinant replacement ectodysplasin is being developed.
Facts and Figures:
Almost 5% of population has minimum 1 tooth missing while 0.3% has 6 or more teeth missing.
