Referred to as congenitally missing teeth (CMT), tooth agenesis, or hypodontia, these conditions are collectively characterized by being born with fewer than average baby and adult teeth. (Although absent wisdom teeth are considered normal and not a part of hypodontia.) Even though hypodontia affects less than 10% of the population, effectively addressing this condition may:
- Boost self-esteem
- Stabilize existing teeth
- Prevent bone loss
- Help people eat, speak, and perform other daily functions
If you are bothered by one or more missing teeth, the good news is that your smile does not have to stay like this forever. At Dental Care of Lombard, Dr. Julie Glud identifies ways to help people with congenital and acquired tooth loss through restorative dental practices. Contact our office to learn more about restorative dentistry options that look and function similarly to natural teeth.
Although there is not a clear or exact understanding of what causes hypodontia, here are five risk factors that may attribute to congenitally missing teeth:
1. Inheritance
Although some scientists may argue that missing certain permanent teeth is an evolutionary advantage, the National Organization for Disorders believes that hypodontia is genetic. Several genes are associated with hypodontia. Depending on the gene involved, hypodontia can showcase and follow different modes of inheritance.
2. Low Birth Weight
In a study published by the American Journal of Orthodontics, researchers detected a trend for children with a very low birth weight (5 pounds 8 ounces or less, or premature children) to show a greater frequency of hypodontia.
Additionally, children with hypodontia (especially those missing two or more teeth) indicated an increased incidence of premature births compared with their peers without hypodontia.
3. Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Epithelial Ovarian Cancer (EOC) forms in the tissue covering the ovary. In a controlled study conducted by the Journal of the American Dental Association, researchers suggested a statistical association between hypodontia (in permanent teeth) and epithelial ovarian cancer. These scientific findings implied that women with epithelial ovarian cancer are 8.1 times more likely to have hypodontia than are women without EOC.
4. Down Syndrome
Dental issues are frequently seen in people with Down Syndrome (DS), such as:
- Missing teeth
- Smaller than average teeth
- Shorter than average tooth roots
Because people with hypodontia and DS have a shorter cranial base and hypoplastic maxilla, a reduced facial height, and other complications result.
5. Cleft Lips and Palates
Orofacial clefts are congenital deficiencies that happen when a baby’s lip or mouth does not properly form in the womb. Compared to children without clefts, hypodontia is statistically significantly higher in children with a cleft lip, cleft palate, or both.
Speak with Our Dentist About Suitable Treatment for Missing Teeth
Since hypodontia can strongly influence the relationship between the jaw and the teeth, dentists must manage this condition. Are you looking for hypodontia solutions in Lombard, IL? If the answer to this question is “yes,” then look no further. No matter how you’ve lost your teeth, Dr. Glud can help you find a solution that can help you smile confidently again with a comprehensive range of services designed to fit your needs, including:
- Invisalign
- Dental Bridges
- Removable Partial Dentures
- Dental Implants
Every smile is as unique as the person it belongs to. So, there is no automatic answer to which dental service you should choose. Instead of guessing, schedule a consultation today. Call (630) 629-5700 or message us online.
