MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Amelogenesis imperfecta

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Amelogenesis imperfecta

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition Causes, incidence, and risk factors Symptoms Signs and tests	Treatment Expectations (prognosis) Complications Calling your health care provider Prevention

Illustrations

Tooth anatomy

Definition Return to top

Amelogenesis imperfecta is when a person's teeth are covered with thin, malformed enamel.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top

Amelogenesis imperfecta is an inherited condition that is transmitted as a dominant trait. It causes the enamel of the tooth to be soft and thin. Because the dentin is visible through the thin enamel, the teeth appear yellow and are easily damaged. Both baby teeth and permanent teeth are affected.

Symptoms Return to top

Yellowish to dark-appearing teeth with thin enamel.
Easily abraded enamel
Abnormal tooth color

Signs and tests Return to top

A dentist can identify and diagnose the condition.

Treatment Return to top

The treatment depends on the severity of the problem. Full crowns will improve the appearance of the teeth and protect them from damage.

Expectations (prognosis) Return to top

Treatment is often successful in protecting the teeth.

Complications Return to top

The enamel is easily fractured and damaged, which affects the appearance of the teeth, especially if left untreated.

Calling your health care provider Return to top

Call your dentist if you have symptoms of this condition.

Prevention Return to top

Genetic counseling may be of interest to prospective parents.

Update Date: 10/9/2003

Updated by: Michael Kapner, D.D.S., Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry, New Rochelle, N.Y., Editor, Ninth District Dental Association. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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