Authors: Cecilia Bacali, Roxana Tristiu, Mariana Constantiniuc, Corina Tișler, Raluca Dascălu, Antarinia Crăciun
Affiliation
Department of Prosthodontics, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Abstract
Background. Hypodontia is a common dental anomaly that concerns mostly the permanent dentition. Tooth absence can be observed in the frontal or lateral area of dental arch, in general being considered an evolutionary adaptation to the smaller sizes of the jaws. Environmental, genetic and epigenetic factors were mentioned as causes for hypodontia. Associations between hypodontia and tooth size and shape are a controversial issue among different authors. There are regional variations in the number of missing teeth. The severity of the disease is dependent on the number of absent teeth.
Aims. The study aims to analyze the general particularities of hypodontia, the causes, the signs and symptoms, the methods used for diagnostic and treatment options in order to optimize the management of this dental disorder.
Methods. Literature research was performed in PubMed based on specific keywords and the relevant articles were selected and then analyzed.
Results. Prevalence of tooth absence, clinical situation and associations to other conditions and symptoms were evaluated by different authors. Hypodontia was reported both in the primary and secondary teeth. Prevalence among females was found higher than in males. Certain teeth are absent more frequent in women, others in men. The last molars, lateral incisors and second premolars are the most reported missing teeth.
Conclusions. Early diagnostic and treatment can enhance the chances of a successful treatment in cases of congenitally tooth absence. It is essential that dental care practitioners inform patients and their families that management of this condition may require multi- and inter-disciplinary input.
Keywords: hypodontia, oligodontia, agenesia, aplasia, impacted teeth
Hypodontia – an overview of the particularities, etiologic factors and treatment
