Amelogenesis imperfecta
Definition
Amelogenesis imperfecta is a tooth development disorder in which the teeth are covered with thin, abnormally formed enamel.
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Amelogenesis imperfecta is passed down through families as a dominant trait. That means you only need to get the abnormal gene from one parent in order for you to get the disease.
Symptoms
The enamel of the tooth is soft and thin. The teeth appear yellow and are easily damaged. Both baby teeth and permanent teeth are affected.
See also: Abnormal tooth color
Signs and tests
A dentist can identify and diagnose the condition.
Treatment
The treatment depends on the severity of the problem. Full crowns will improve the appearance of the teeth and protect them from damage.
Support Groups
Expectations (prognosis)
Treatment is often successful in protecting the teeth.
Complications
The enamel is easily fractured and damaged, which affects the appearance of the teeth, especially if left untreated.
Calling your health care provider
Call your dentist if you have symptoms of this condition.
Prevention
visHeader
References
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission
(www.urac.org). URAC's
accreditation
program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and
accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information
and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s
editorial policy,
editorial process, and
privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of
Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (
www.HONcode.ch.)
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or
treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and
treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are
provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
©1997-2012 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly
prohibited.
Get the MOST from QualityHealth
- Stories
- Recipes
- Top Searches
- 1. Allergy Seals and Certifications
- 2. Cancer Studies and Statistics
- 3. Fat Facts for Diabetics
- 4. 10 Ways to Tame Your Sugar Cravings
- 5. 4 Ways to Go Healthy at a Coffee Shop
- 6. Exercises to Cure Your Neck Pain
- 7. Overweight With Normal Blood Pressure?
- 8. 5 Ways to Improve Leg Circulation
- 9. Green Tea for Health & Beauty
- 10. How to Pick the Right Makeup Brushes
- 1. Could You Have a Deviated Septum?
- 2. Today's Mammogram Guidelines
- 3. The Benefits of Protein for Diabetics
- 4. How Grief Affects the Body
- 5. Best Food Guide for IBD
- 6. 5 Things to Do Before Your Workout
- 7. A Heart Attack Without Risk Factors?
- 8. How to Handle Arthritis on the Job
- 9. Perfect Nails at Home in 10 Steps
- 10. How to Get More Vitamin D
The material on the QualityHealth Web site is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment provided by a physician or other qualified health provider. See additional information.