Anodontia

Definition

Definition of Anodontia
Anodontia is the congenital absence of teeth and can occur in some or all teeth (partial anodontia or hipodontia), involve two dentitions or only teeth of the permanent dentition (Dorland's 1998). Many denominations are attributed to this anomaly: partial anodontia, hypodontia, oligodontia, the congenital absence, anodontia, bilateral aplasia. Anodontia being the term used in controlled vocabulary Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) from MEDLINE which was developed by the USA National Library of Medicine. The Anodontia of at least one permanent tooth is the most common dental anomaly and may contribute to masticator dysfunction, speech impairment, aesthetic problems, and malocclusion (Shapiro and Farrington 1983). Absence of lateral incisors represents a major stereotype. Individuals with this condition are perceived as socially most aggressive compared with people without anodontia (Shaw 1981).

Symptoms

Symptoms of Anodontia
The list of signs and symptoms for Anodontia listed below:

1. Missing teeth
2. Failure of one or more teeth to develop

Causes

Causes of Anodontia
Anodontia is caused by a genetic defect, but the specific gene mutation is not known.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Anodontia
Consult with your doctor.

Treatment

Treatment of Anodontia
Prosthetic replacement of missing teeth is possible using dental implant technology or dentures. This treatment can be successful in giving patients with anodontia a more normal appearance.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Anodontia
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Anodontia
Consult with your doctor.