Enamel is that hard, protective, visible outside layer of the tooth. It keeps teeth healthy and strong. Just like any developmental defect in the body there can also be defects on your teeth. Enamel hypoplasia refers to a condition in which the enamel doesn’t fully develop leaving teeth more vulnerable to damage and decay. It can affect the primary and permanent teeth but just because the primary tooth is hypoplastic does not necessarily mean that the permanent teeth will as well.  Parents may first become aware when they notice chalky spots or yellow or brown patches on one or more of their child’s teeth. 

Although, your tooth enamel represents the most highly mineralized and hardest substance in your body, it is very sensitive to disturbances when developing. The following are common causes for enamel hypoplasia:

– The mother’s health during pregnancy

– Premature birth or birth difficulties

– Medications given to mother prior to birth or to child during early childhood

– Early childhood diseases (high fever, pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections)

– Dental trauma or injury

– Surgical procedures.

Caring for your teeth at home is essential for children with Enamel Hypoplasia.

Avoid sugary, highly processed treats–especially soda, as well as sticky, chewy candy or treats – which is considered a major cause of enamel erosion. These weaken teeth by eating away at naturally produced enamel in your teeth. Eat a diet designed to remineralize and strengthen your teeth, including whole grains, fruits and vegetables, proteins and dairy products. Some great snacks include celery or carrot sticks, fruits, nuts, cheese and plain yogurt. Many dentists are now also recommending that parents avoid giving fruit juice to young children because of its high sugar content. And of course brushing and flossing twice a day is key.

If your child is prone to cavities, and their dentist identifies weak enamel as a problem, the most important thing you can do is see the dentist for checkups on a regular basis. In addition to monitoring for cavities, their dentist can offer treatments like sealants and fluoride coatings to help protect their tooth enamel.

Some of these teeth are so poorly formed, they may be extremely sensitive as soon as they begin erupting into the mouth.  These posterior teeth often require a full coverage stainless steel crown to alleviate this sensitivity and to allow proper function of the tooth.  If a permanent molar is affected, once the child is done with braces and growing, a porcelain white crown can be completed by the general dentist.