Dental agenesis is a fairly common problem. Let’s find out what it is and the possible treatments.
Dental agenesis is one of the most common anomalies and is characterized by the absence of one or more teeth. It has nothing to do with poor dental hygiene or care.
Instead, it is a congenital problem that is often shared in the family. For this reason, in the presence of dental agenesis , any family history must be checked.
Contrary to what one might think, it does not concern the entire dentition, but only the incisors and premolars. Timely diagnosis is essential: the sooner the problem is identified, the sooner treatment is started. The latter usually consists in the replacement of missing teeth or in the correction of the arch.
Taking action will prevent the situation from worsening and, for sure, will improve the patient ‘s self – esteem . We see below the causes, types of agenesis and possible treatments.
What are the causes of dental agenesis?
We just mentioned that dental agenesis is a hereditary problem, however there are other possible causes.
The most common is a physical obstruction or break in the dental lamina that prevents the tooth from forming properly. Over time, this can fall off or pop out incompletely.
Lack of space can be another possible reason for dental agenesis. In many cases it is found in people with overlapping teeth due to the lack of space in the arch.
At the same time, this anomaly can be linked to an impediment in the process of tooth formation or odontogenesis . This causes some teeth to fail to complete their natural cycle.
Types of dental agenesis
Although dental agenesis is known to cause the loss or malformation of certain teeth , it is not known precisely whether it affects all or some.
This depends on various factors such as, for example, the type of inherited agenesis or the speed of diagnosis and intervention. The following types of agenesis indicate the stage of the dental abnormality.
- Hypodontia : this is the least severe stage and is characterized by the absence of 1 – 6 teeth.
- Oligodontics : More than 6 teeth are absent, a condition that can be aggravated.
- Anodonzia : it is the most serious stage, with complete absence of the teeth.
In the case of hypodontia and oligodontics, tooth loss can occur only in one side of the mouth or both. In the first case we speak of unilateral agenesis, bilateral in the second.
Treatments available
The task of making the diagnosis of dental agenesis naturally rests with the dentist . Once the diagnosis is received, there are two ways.
Dental implant
Implantology is the most frequent treatment in case of dental agenesis.
Depending on your age, oral condition, and the number of missing teeth, your dentist might suggest dental implantology.
It is a dental technique used when teeth are damaged or fallen out . The implant allows the insertion of an artificial tooth through a small titanium screw inserted into the jaw bone.
The state of the gum is a factor to consider to understand if this solution can offer satisfactory results. For this reason it is always advisable to rely on trusted doctors.
Orthodontics
Cases of hypodontia can be corrected with orthodontic treatment
In cases of agenesis that go by the name of hypodontics, an orthodontic solution can be opted for. This surgery allows you to close the spaces between the teeth and avoid having to undergo implantation .
There is also the possibility of inserting a partial prosthesis. However, it is a resource to turn to if none of the previous solutions are applicable.
To be sure that the result is in line with our expectations, it is very important to rely on a professional who has treated other cases of dental agenesis.
Does your family member suffer from this problem? As you have seen, it can be easily fixed and there are several alternatives that help restore a healthy smile .
