Congenitally Missing Teeth

Congenitally Missing Teeth

Congenitally missing teeth (CMT), also called, hypodontia is a condition in which six or fewer permanent teeth haven’t developed. The most common missing teeth in CMT patients include upper lateral incisors, second premolars bicuspids, and wisdom teeth. Studies suggest CMT is inherited, but environmental factors may also play a role.

If you have CMT, it’s important that you have these gaps replaced. Having missing teeth can make it difficult to eat and speak. It can also lead to more tooth loss. There are a variety of tooth replacement options available for CMT patients. Removable partial dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants can fill in those gaps and provide functionality. Braces can sometimes be used as well, but adjacent teeth may need to be reshaped. Tooth replacement options for CMT patients will all depend on the person’s age, gender, and the amount of time the tooth has been missing. For example, a dental implant may not be recommended for children, because their jaws are still growing.