Amelogenesis: Treatment, Cost and Side Effects

Amelogenesis imperfecta is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of teeth in the people affected. More specifically, the condition prevents proper enamel formation, which leads to the teeth being abnormal and softer in nature. The disorder may lead to easier damage of the teeth and even chipping. Apart from the functional issues, the teeth also do not develop their normal colour and is often brown or yellow.

The mutations in the genes ENAM, AMELX or MMP20 may lead to the disorder. Proper functioning of these three genes are required in order for the correct development of the enamel layer in the teeth. Enamel is the outermost layer of the teeth and it is responsible for lending the strength to the teeth. While the mutation can be passed off from parents to their children, it may also affect children with no family history of the disease.

There are three kinds of amelogenesis imperfecta, namely, hypoplastic, hypomaturation and hypocalcified. Hypolplastic is the condition where the enamel created is hard, but not enough of the enamel is developed. Hypomaturation is the condition where the enamel does not become properly developed and is too soft. Lastly, the condition where the enamel is still in the initial stages of formation is known as hypocalcified. This last type is the most severe form of amelogenesis imperfecta, while the hypoplastic type is the least complex.

There is no final treatment for the condition and constant care is needed to manage the symptoms. Treatment depends on the type of the disease that affects the person. However, before treatment can be started, the disease needs to be diagnosed at first. Generally, a dentist will be able to diagnose the genetic condition during a routine examination of the teeth. An X-ray may be needed, but doctors can often diagnose it through visual examination only.

If the patient suffers from hypoplastic form of the disease, bonding of the teeth may be sufficient to reduce the visible damage to them. This method uses a mixture of hard plastic and porcelain veneers to cover the damage in the teeth. It can only be used in case of hypoplastic forms of the condition, because in this type the enamel is strong enough to hold on to the artificial mixture.

People with other forms of the disease will need orthodontic treatments such as braces and appliances to keep the damage contained. People with the disease will also need to maintain very good dental hygiene and avoid eating sugary foods.

People suffering from amelogenesis are required to seek treatment for the same. If the condition remains without treatment, the teeth may break off. This can be painful and traumatic as the appearance is widely affected.

People who have weak teeth, but do not suffer from the genetic condition should not seek treatment for amelogenesis imperfecta. In such a case, the patient should visit the dentist and get diagnosed before getting treatment.

If the treatment is conducted by an experienced dentist, the remedy for amelogenesis should not have any side effects. However, in some cases, patients may undergo pain in the tooth or gun region. If such a problem arises, patients should visit a dentist and get checked out.

Amelogenesis is a genetic disorder and there is no permanent treatment for the same. Even after a dental procedure is performed, the person affected needs to follow certain guidelines, so that they can lead a relatively normal life. For instance, patients with amelogenesis need to limit their sugary food intake. This is because sugar can be damaging to the teeth and can make recovery difficult. Furthermore, patients must also follow a strict regime when it comes to their dental health. Lastly, such people are required to visit the dentist much more often when compared to others.

After a dental procedure is completed, patients will recover from most of the symptoms in a week or two. However, if the post care guidelines are not followed, the recovery may take longer in some cases.

Treatment cost may range from anywhere between Rs. 60,000 and Rs. 2,00,000, depending on the form of treatment deemed appropriate by the dentist or orthodontist.

Results of the treatment are temporary and the teeth may get damaged at a later point of time. A lot depends on the patients, as he/she needs to follow certain guidelines, such as maintaining proper oral hygiene. If these restrictions are not enforced, the teeth damage may recur.