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Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontics Consultation At 3Dental - Orthodontics
Dr. Paul O'Connell Explains Orthodontics Consultation At 3Dental - Orthodontics
Tooth agenesis - also known as the absence of one or multiple teeth - is a congenital condition that affects both milk and adult teeth. There are varying forms of agenesis, but all can impact dental function and self-esteem.
The condition is highly treatable, and our dentists can create a bespoke plan to address your agenesis, give you renewed confidence, and improve your dental function.
What Is Tooth Agenesis?
Dental agenesis - or congenitally missing teeth - occurs when a person's teeth fail to develop.
It's often caused by genetic disorders inherited through families or environmental factors. However, missing permanent teeth that occur due to trauma don't count as agenesis.
As a relatively common dental condition, people with agenesis have access to different treatments that improve their smile and address issues with speech and chewing.
There are different types of tooth agenesis, with each varying in severity.
Hypodontia
Hypodontia is the most common and mild form of agenesis. It happens when a person is missing between one and six of their permanent teeth.
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Before And After (Click to enlarge)
- Smile In A DayWhile children can experience hypodontia, they don't require treatment unless their adult teeth don't erupt.
Adults with hypodontia usually experience missing upper lateral incisors and second premolars, but it can impact other teeth.
Oligodontia
Adults with six or more missing teeth have a more severe form of agenesis called oligodontia.
This lack of tooth development is often caused by genetic disorders and underlying medical conditions.
Oligodontia can have a range of side effects, including limited dental function, and people with the condition often require more treatment than those with hypodontia.
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Before and After (Click to enlarge)
- Smile In A DayAnodontia
Anodontia is the rarest form of agenesis, in which no permanent teeth are present.
The condition often occurs due to genetic mutations and medical conditions. Due to its severity, treatment often involves a multi-disciplined approach.
What Are The Symptoms Of Tooth Agenesis?
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| Psychological Effects | We'd all love a perfect smile, and the agenesis of permanent teeth can impact a person's self-esteem. It's easy to understand why this happens - and treatments can make you feel ready to take on the world. |
| Gaps | Multiple missing teeth cause gaps and spaces between the remaining teeth. The gaps are more noticeable if agenesis is present in the incisors or top front teeth. |
| Smaller Teeth | Some people notice the teeth adjacent to missing teeth appear smaller, or their lateral incisors have a distinct peg shape. |
| Jaw Problems | Missing teeth can impact jaw development, causing a sunken look in the face. |
| Dental Function | Lacking permanent teeth might cause speech issues and chewing difficulties—especially when the premolars and incisors are missing. |
What Are The Causes Of Tooth Agenesis?
Tooth agenesis can occur due to genetic, familial, and environmental factors, but it's a congenital condition. Understanding the root cause of dental anomalies is key to implementing effective treatment options.
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Lindsey Feeney's Testimonial - Smile In A Day
Lindsey Feeney's Testimonial - Smile In A Day
Familial Tooth Agenesis
The majority of cases occur due to a family history of agenesis. If a parent has the condition, their children are more likely to suffer from it due to genetic predispositions.
Gene mutations can impact primary teeth in young children, which might continue into adulthood.
Health Conditions And Genetic Disorders
Some health conditions, including cleft lip and palate, ectodermal dysplasia, and Down's syndrome, can increase the risks of dental agenesis. Babies with low birth weight and previous candida or rubella infections are more likely to suffer from congenitally missing teeth.
Medical treatments
Children who receive treatment for cancer might develop agenesis of permanent teeth later in life. Studies show that radiotherapy, chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation can inhibit tooth development (Wiley).
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Treatment of dental agenesis
Dental agenesis can negatively impact your life, but seeking treatment can help you rediscover your confidence and enjoy showing off your smile. When you first visit us, we'll take an X-ray and assess the severity of your condition.
Once we understand your smile goals, a specialist dentist will develop a bespoke permanent tooth agenesis treatment plan.
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Adult Braces Explained by Dr. Paula Taracido - Adult Braces
Orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment won't fix missing teeth but can prepare your mouth for further treatments. Your dentist will assess whether braces will be beneficial and advise you on the most effective orthodontic treatments.
Braces can encourage your existing teeth to move into their natural positions, creating enough space for us to fit implants and bridges.
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Dental Implants Explained by Dr. Peter Doherty - Dental Implants
Dental implants
Dental implants are a popular solution for agenesis. They replace missing teeth and promote jawbone health.
When fitted, they can enhance dental function and prevent speech issues. Implants are also highly durable, typically lasting for many years.
We ensure that our patients receive the best possible implants, carefully matching them to the colour of their teeth to give them a natural smile.
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Dental Bridges Explained by Dr. Carmen Anastasi - Bridges
Bridges
If you have minor agenesis, bridges can be a more convenient - and affordable - solution. Bridges fill the gaps where missing teeth should be, by attaching to the adjacent teeth.
They can also prevent the need for a bone graft, making them popular for people who want to avoid surgery.
Dentures
Dentures can benefit congenitally missing teeth, but many people avoid them due to their potential to move around. However, technological advances now mean implant-retained dentures are growing in popularity because they address the problems posed by traditional dentures.
Book Your Free Consultation With 3Dental
If you'd like to address tooth agenesis and access a range of treatment solutions, we'd love to help you get the smile you deserve.
With an expert team of dentists and affordable treatment plans, you can discover the best treatments and enjoy flexible payments.
Book your free consultation today :)
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