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Similar to other body systems, specific pathology parameters exist for the teeth, outlining whether conditions are developmental, hereditary or microbial in nature. Understanding tooth pathology may help patients better understand their own dental health and the dental health of their children.
To understand tooth pathology, you must first be familiar the layers of the teeth. A tooth is made up of three tissues: enamel (outer layer of the crown) or cementum (the outer layer of the root); dentin (the middle layer, under the enamel or cementum); and pulp (the central core of the tooth where the blood and nerve supplies live).
Merriam-Webster defines pathology as the study of diseases, and of the body's ensuing structural or functional deviations from the norm. Tooth pathology is a division of oral pathology that studies congenital or acquired diseases involving the teeth. These diseases are marked by abnormalities involving the enamel, cementum, dentin or pulp.
Congenital diseases, also known as birth defects, occur at or before birth. Congenital anomalies may be hereditary, environmental or the result of risk factors. According to the World Health Organization, about 50 percent of congenital diseases have no known, specific cause.
There are several congenital conditions that affect the tissues of the tooth. A study published in Inside Dentistry reports two of these conditions are hypoplasia and hypocalcification, where pits or malformations in the enamel surface affect the strength of the enamel covering the tooth.
Certain stains or tooth discolorations can also be attributed to congenital defects. Patients can also have defects where too many teeth form (supernumerary teeth) or too few teeth form (congenitally missing teeth). Teeth can be congenitally rotated, affecting tooth positioning and functional bite (malocclusion).
Congenital diseases of the teeth vary greatly, and it is often necessary to see an oral care professional to differentiate between various possible conditions.
Some tooth conditions result from infections or diseases that are acquired throughout life. These conditions may involve microbial pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses or fungi. Local or generalized tooth infections, metabolic disease, endocrine disorders and dental fluorosis are all examples of acquired conditions.
Visit your dentist every six months for routine checkups, and schedule your child's first dental appointment when their first tooth erupts. Dental professionals are well-versed in tooth pathology and can let you know if your teeth are healthy or whether they need special attention.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
