Hypodontia is a subdivision of agenesis, wherein an individual has an absence of one to five teeth in total. It is mainly caused by genetics; however, several other reasons might be a leading cause behind this hypodontia in kids.
Causes of Hypodontia in kids
There are several causes of hypodontia in kids. Here are some of the most common reasons you will see:
1. Genetics
Genetics has a big role to play in hypodontia. Also known as a type of congenitally missing teeth, hypodontia in kids is the most common form of agenesis. In this condition, one to five adult teeth are never formed in kids after the primary ones have fallen out.
Hypodontia can also occur with other genetic conditions like cleft lip or palate and down syndrome.
2. Gum Disease
If your child suffers from gum diseases like gingivitis, bleeding gums, inflammation in gums, or redness, they are likely to suffer from hypodontia. These gum diseases cause small pockets between their teeth and gums. With time, these pockets cause their tissue to recede and decay their teeth and bone, leading to tooth loss.
3. Tooth Decay
Cavities are also the leading cause of hypodontia. If the tooth decay is left untreated for a longer period of time, it can lead to permanent tooth loss in kids.
4. Poor Dental Hygiene
There is a reason why kids should be taught the importance of maintaining proper dental hygiene. Brushing twice a day and flossing regularly leads to healthy teeth and gums.
If your child does not follow a proper oral routine, they are at high risk of developing dental conditions like cavities or gum diseases in their aggravated form, resulting in missing teeth.
Treatment for Hypodontia
Although hypodontia is a severe issue in kids that needs to be taken care of, you can reduce your worries because several treatment options are available.
1. Braces
With the help of braces, your child’s teeth can be shifted back to their correct position. In this treatment, metal braces are latched onto the teeth with the help of connecting wires. They create pressure on their teeth, causing them to move.
Apart from braces, even Invisalign can be used. They are more discreet and convenient in contrast to braces.
2. Dentures
What makes dentures convenient is the fact that they are removable. These removable plates are attached with false teeth and can be taken out at night. Kids with speech problems caused due to missing teeth can start wearing dentures.
Moreover, dentures are a reliable option if your child has not yet reached the age to have dental implants. This is not a permanent solution, and you will have to change dentures according to the growing size and changing shape of your child’s jaw.
3. Dental Implants
In this procedure, a metal root is placed inside the jawbone. Later, a crown that looks like teeth is placed on top of the implant, creating false teeth.
Bottom Line
You do not have to panic over your child’s missing teeth because there are several options to treat hypodontia in kids conveniently. Hope this article helps you in picking the correct treatment option!
Author Bio:
Creating perfect smiles is what Dr. Satish Pai is committed to. An orthodontist by profession, he believes that a perfect smile is a powerful part of a person’s personality. When he is not working hard on perfecting his patients’ smiles at Putnam Ortho, he is busy writing engaging articles about everything related to healthy and perfect smiles. His other passions include golf, yoga and surfing. Spending time with his family always brings a smile on his face.
