If your child was born with an enamel defect — such as teeth with weak or nonexistent enamel — this can increase their risk of tooth decay and gum disease. However, since child teeth are temporary, most parents want to know if this issue will affect their children’s adult teeth.  Pedodontic Associates, the leading pediatric dentistry clinic in Honolulu, HI, discuss everything you need to know.

Will My Child Have Enamel Defects in Their Adult Teeth?

Often, if your child was born with an enamel defect, this issue will not carry over to their adult teeth. The only exception to this is if your child has a genetic disorder that causes the teeth to develop with thin, pitted, less-mineralized or missing enamel. A pediatric dentistry specialist can analyze this situation for you.

What Causes Enamel Defects?

While various factors can cause this condition, the most common are genetic disorders or issues that occur during pregnancy or infancy. For instance, premature births can interrupt enamel formation. Other causes outside the womb — such as poor nutrition or a viral infection — may also cause an enamel deficiency.

How Is It Treated?

Teeth with weakened or no enamel are more susceptible to tooth decay and damage. While a dentist cannot replace the enamel on the teeth, there are various treatments available to protect the teeth, depending on the age of the patient. The most extensive treatments are crowns that offer the weakened teeth full coverage.

A pediatric dental exam is the best way to determine which treatment method is right for a child with an enamel defect. If you’re seeking a pediatric dentistry clinic in Honolulu or on Maui, turn to the team at Pedodontic Associates. They provide state-of-the-art general and cosmetic treatments in a comfortable environment for children of all ages. Patients in Kahului, call (808) 877-0066 to schedule an appointment; if you’re in Honolulu, call (808) 735-1733; or to see a pediatric dentist in Aiea, call (808) 487-7933 today. You can also visit their website for more information about the pediatric dentistry center’s services.