What Does Enamel Hypoplasia Look Like?
While damage to the enamel and pits are often caused by poor oral hygiene and other controllable factors, pits can also be genetic. This form of genetic damage to the enamel is known as “enamel hypoplasia” or “pitted enamel hypoplasia.”
What is Tooth Enamel?
The enamel of your teeth is the tough surface that covers the exterior. This thin surface is extremely strong, but it can be damaged over time. After it is damaged, it cannot grow back.
What Does Enamel Hypoplasia Look Like?
Genetic damage to the enamel of patients is known as Enamel hypoplasia (or pitted enamel hypoplasia). This condition can appear as yellow teeth, brown spots, white spots, grooves, or even pits in teeth. This genetic issue can appear both in primary and adult teeth. Your dentist will diagnose enamel hypoplasia as soon as they find it during an exam. From there, your dentist will be able to provide you with more information about proper care and treatment options.
Other Causes of Pitted and Damaged Enamel
Genetics isn’t the only reason for damaged or pitted enamel. Other causes include:
- Drinking fruit drinks and soda. If you drink a lot of soda or fruit drinks that are acidic, you can damage the enamel of your teeth over time.
- Acid reflux and heartburn. Those that suffer from more advanced heartburn and acid reflux may experience their stomach acid making its way into their mouth. This can eat away at the enamel.
- Bruxism. Bruxism is clenching and grinding of the teeth. Over time, this will damage the surface of your teeth and the enamel if not addressed.
- Brushing too hard. Brushing too hard can wear down enamel eventually.
In order to prevent pitting and other forms of damage, there are a few things you can do. If you are grinding or clenching your teeth at night, purchase a mouth guard. Your dentist can also have a custom guard made for you. Cut back on soda and other drinks high in acid. If you have acid reflux, speak with your doctor and consider changing your diet.
Signs of Enamel Erosion
Some of the signs of enamel erosion that you should look out for include:
- Pits and fissures
- Cracks and chips
- Pain and sensitivity
- Discoloration
Treatment for Teeth Enamel Erosion
The treatment of enamel erosion will depend on the reason for the erosion and the severity. If your child or you have enamel hypoplasia, sealants may be an option. Fluoride toothpaste is also helpful. It’s important to be extra vigilant when it comes to caring for teeth with enamel hypoplasia.
Other forms of repair may include dental bonding, veneers, or even dental crowns.
Reach Out Today!
If you believe your child or you have undiagnosed enamel hypoplasia, reach out. Your dentist will take a look to diagnose the issue. If enamel hypoplasia is diagnosed, your dentist will let you know how to best address the genetic issue.
We look forward to speaking with you and treating your enamel issues.