Question:

I am trying to help my brother research information about this condition, amelogenesis imperfecta. His 18 year old daughter`s teeth have begun to fall apart and they were told that his was the cause and that it could also lead to bone problems later on. I have tried searching the web, but found mostly clinical articles. Can you suggest a direction where I might find more simple information.

Answer:

Amelogenesis imperfecta is an inherited defect of tooth enamel (the outer surface of teeth) affecting its shape, thickness, color or strength. There are four major types of this condition with different clinical features. There are no “bone problems” associated with amelogenesis imperfecta.

There is another condition of teeth called “dentinogenesis imperfecta” which, in some cases, is associated with a “brittle bone” condition called osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). OI is present at birth and is not acquired later in life.

There are multiple types of each of the conditions noted above each presenting with different clinical features. Your niece should be examined by someone who is knowledgeable about them all and can make an accurate diagnosis. The most experienced specialists with these types of problems are oral and maxillofacial pathologists. Contact their national organization, The American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathologists (http://www.aaomp.org/) 888-552-2667 to find the closest one.

For more information:

Go to the Dental and Oral Health (Children) health topic.