Introduction:
Anodontia is a rare form of dental agenesis characterized by the complete absence of teeth. People with Anodontia have never developed teeth. This condition can affect both permanent and primary teeth. People with anodontia may also be affected by ectodermal dysplasia that damages nails, hair, sweat glands, and teeth. Patients find difficulty in chewing and speaking. Anodontia can also result in improper jawbone growth and gum damage.
Symptoms and causes:
The main symptom of anodontia is the absence of all teeth. Other symptoms may include:
Lack of sweat glands
Hearing loss
Difficulty in vision
Thinning of hair
Cleft lip
Cleft palate
Missing nails
Anodontia results from a genetic mutation that affects the dental lamina. Dental lamina is a band of tissue that is present under the gums where your teeth if formed. Anodontia is inherited from the parents in an autosomal recessive pattern. The two copies of an abnormal gene are necessary for the condition to develop.
Diagnosis:
Healthcare providers suspect anodontia if the baby doesn’t develop teeth by the time when they are 13 months old. Dental X-rays are used to confirm the diagnosis. If the X-rays don’t show the teeth, the child might probably have anodontia.
Associated syndromes:
Hypodontia and anodontia are associated with a multitude of genetic disorders. Syndromes associated with ectodermal involvement serve as prime causes for anodontia to occur. Examples include Rieger’s, Robinson’s, and focal dermal dysplasia. Oculomandibulodyscephaly, Mesoectodermal dysplasia, and ectodermal dysplasia are the three syndromes with signs of anodontia. In Oculomandibulodyscephaly, deciduous teeth are present. Hypodontia and anodontia are the symptoms present in neuroectodermal dysplasia. In ectodermal dysplasia, oligodontia is present.
Case studies:
A case study conducted in 2016 presented with a report of anodontia. The boy was six years old and there was no family history of anodontia. The patient did not present any symptoms of ectodermal dysplasia. Hypodontia was present in maxillary arch. The left primary first molar and bilateral primary second molars were the only teeth present. The palate, buccal mucosa, and mouth floor were considered normal. Oral rehabilitation was chosen as the treatment modality for the patient. The patient faced struggles in the beginning to wear dentures. There were no problems regarding the retention of the denture. Improvements in speech skills and communication were also observed after the placement of the denture.
In another case study in 2013, an 8-year-old boy reported missing teeth. The father said that there is a family history of missing teeth. The patient had dry skin, absence of sweating, sensitivity to heat, absence of eyebrows, absence of eyelashes, hyperpigmentation, and other ectodermal dysplasia symptoms. After the examination, the patient was diagnosed with anodontia. After the denture insertion, the patient’s facial expression improved. The patient is recalled every six months for a check-up. Drastic improvements were noted with speech and chewing.
Treatment:
Anodontia cannot be prevented as it is a genetic disorder. Prosthetic rehabilitation can be done with dental implants and dentures. These treatments can give a pleasant aesthetic appearance. Implant prostheses can be used in the lower jaw for younger patients as they improve craniofacial growth, social development, and self-image. Implant prosthesis has functional, aesthetic, and psychological advantages over conventional dentures.
Conclusion:
Effective management of anodontia requires a collaborative effort among dentists, orthodontists, oral surgeons, and psychologists to address the physical and emotional dimensions of this condition. Through the utilization of advanced techniques and the creation of a nurturing atmosphere, individuals with anodontia can be empowered to attain optimal oral health and regain confidence in their smiles. Ongoing research and cooperation within the dental field are vital for enhancing treatment results and providing holistic care to those affected by anodontia.
References:
1. Laskaris, George (2000). Color Atlas of Oral Diseases in Children and Adolescents. Thieme. ISBN 9780865777897.
2. Laskaris, George (2000). Color Atlas of Oral Diseases in Children and Adolescents. Thieme. ISBN 9780865777897.
3. Shaw, William C. (April 1981). "The influence of children's dentofacial appearance on their social attractiveness as judged by peers and lay adults". American Journal of Orthodontics. 79 (4): 399–415. doi:10.1016/0002-9416(81)90382-1. ISSN 0002-9416. PMID 6939333.
