Everyone loses their baby teeth as a rite of passage. However, specific genetic patterns or events can sometimes prevent the development of permanent natural teeth. This condition, called hypodontia, is more common than most people think. The good news is that there are several ways to address missing teeth in Rochester.
Treatment, such as dental bridges or dental implants have long been reliable solutions. Here is what you need to know about hypodontia and what you can do to address this condition.
What Is Hypodontia?
Hypodontia refers to one to six missing teeth for reasons other than a traumatic accident or disease, such as periodontal disease or tooth decay. Many dental specialists classify this as a dental anomaly that results in gaps and spaces in a smile.
Although it might be common for a baby tooth to be missing, it’s typically permanent teeth that are affected. If a baby tooth never comes in at the appropriate age, its permanent successor will likely be missing due to a lack of development.
What Causes Missing Teeth?
Most children’s baby teeth erupt by age 3, with all their adult teeth in place between the ages of 12 and 14. Wisdom teeth are the only exception, most likely erupting in younger adults aged 17-26. Although the exact cause of missing teeth is unknown, various factors and influences may be involved.
Genetics
Like many conditions, genetics may play a role in the development of hypodontia. Our bodies carry tens of thousands of genes, hundreds of which are responsible for tooth development. Any irregularity in these genes can cause a dental anomaly.[1]
Environmental Factors
It’s also believed that environmental factors during pregnancy can contribute to hypodontia. Exposure to infection, drugs, and trauma can all cause this irregularity.[2] One example of this is children who were exposed to thalidomide while in utero. Chemo and radiation therapy may also contribute to hypodontia.
Trauma
Sometimes, injuries at a young age can disrupt dental development. For instance, trauma to the mouth area can cause structural issues, preventing the adult teeth from forming.
Treatment Options for Hypodontia
The spaces in your smile caused by hypodontia can affect your neighboring teeth, leaving them without the proper support to maintain their position. Gaps can also impact your confidence or cause speech and eating difficulties. Today, many treatment options can replace your missing teeth in Rochester and restore your oral function. Here are a few common procedures that your periodontist might consider if you are a candidate:
Dentures
Although complete dentures most commonly replace an entire arch of missing teeth, a partial denture can replace one or more. However, these replacement teeth may not be the best long-term solution.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a more permanent fix for lost teeth. It fills the space between two teeth with an artificial tooth and is supported by a tooth on either side.
A bridge is a durable solution, but it does impact the neighboring teeth. These teeth must be shaved down before the bridge can be cemented. Furthermore, bridgework may not be ideal for teenagers. Your dental surgeon may want you to consider other options until they fully mature.[3]
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most long-lasting solutions for missing teeth, with a success rate of over 95%.[4] However, you will need to be a good candidate for the procedure. For example, in most cases, patients must wait until they are 18 — when all adult teeth are expected to come in — to receive an implant. Patients with gum disease may also require additional procedures before considering dental implants to ensure the implant placement’s success.
Candidates for dental implants will have results that look and feel like a natural permanent tooth. With proper care, diligent hygiene, and regular checkups with your dental surgeon, an implant can last a lifetime.
Treating Your Missing Teeth in Rochester, NY
If you or your loved one have missing teeth, hypodontia may be the cause. At Dental Implants & Periodontal Health of Rochester, our experienced team can help you find a solution for tooth loss and other oral health conditions to create a smile you’ll love for life. Call us at 585-534-3346 to schedule your appointment today.
Sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5376450/
[3] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10921-dental-bridges
[4] https://connect.aaid-implant.org/blog/success-rate-dental-implants
