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ENAMEL HYPOPLASIA
Enamel hypoplasia is a condition where the enamel does not form correctly, or is damaged during its development. This will result in a defect of or a chipping off of the enamel covering. This will result in exposure of the underlying dentin. The defect can be isolated to one tooth or area of a tooth, or may be widespread throughout the dental arcade. The teeth are only slightly weaker than normal teeth, but are much more susceptible to wear, as dentin is not as wear resistant as enamel is. If aesthetics are a concern and the involved area is not too big, then a restoration can be placed over the area. This restoration can be lost as well, but the new bonding agents are fairly effective. If the chance of wear is excessive, or the chance of fracture is high (i.e. working dogs) then crown therapy is warranted. These teeth are normally vital, however before any restorations are placed, it is best to ensure this with dental radiographs.
ENAMEL HYPOPLASIA RESTORATION
There are four basic goals to the treatment of enamel hypoplasia (actually enamel hypocalcification). The first is to remove the dentinal sensitivity produced when the enamel is lost from the tooth surface. The second is to improve esthetics (or looks) of the tooth. Third is to smooth the surface of the tooth to minimize plaque and calculus buildup. When the enamel is lost or damaged, the rough and porous dentin surface is exposed, leading to rapid buildup and potentially more rapid periodontal disease. Finally, depending on the severity and location of the defect, additional strength may be desired to decrease wear and the possibility of tooth fracture.
Decreasing the dentinal sensitivity can be accomplished in one of three ways. The simplest way is via fluoride treatment. This will not only decrease the dentinal sensitivity, but can also slightly strengthen the tooth. This is most effective on very small areas of enamel damage, and does not smooth the surface of the tooth. Another option is to perform dental bonding of a composite restoration over the lost area. This can be very effective in decreasing the dentinal sensitivity, smoothing the surface, and will also increase the esthetics if a shade that matches the tooth color is used. Finally, a full coverage crown can be employed, however this is often reserved for large areas of loss.
Improved esthetics can be achieved either by the aforementioned composite restoration or depending on severity by a full coverage crown. The composite restoration is good for small areas that will not undergo much masticatory trauma. There is a tendency for these restorations to be lost or damaged in high stress areas over time. If there are large areas, especially in occlusal surfaces, a full coverage crown can provide good to excellent esthetics.
Increased strength can only be effectively achieved by a full coverage crown. This will require two anesthetics, but is the best for long term treatment of large areas of hypoplasia. In addition, this will decrease sensitivity and depending on the crown material chosen can provide excellent esthetics.
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