Enamel defect can be implicated as "weak" enamel with reduced thickness or enamel with poor quality.  Enamel defect can appear as pitted, rough surfaces or with white, yellow or brownish discolouration in a tooth or in multiple teeth.

Enamel is a protective layer on the visible part of the crown of the tooth.  It is the hardest and most highly mineralized substance of the body.  The formation of enamel is very senstive, any disturbances occur during the tooth development can result in enamel defects, affecting the primary or permanent teeth.  


What causes enamel defects?

There are many different risk factors have been linked to enamel defects in primary and permanent teeth in children.  The most common risk factors include:

• Mother's health during pregnancy (illnesses, diet deficiency)
• Prematurity
• Birth difficulties
• Medications given to mother prior birth or to child during early childhood
• Early childhood diseases (high fever, pneumonia, middle ear infection, viral infections etc.)
• Chronic / frequent childhood illness during first four years of life
• Poor childhood nutrition (deficient diet, lack of calcium, phosphate, vitamins A, C, D)
• Trauma to mouth or primary teeth can cause localised enamel defects

Rarely, enamel defect can be inherited and is called Amelogenesis Imperfecta.  Every primary and permanent totoh has abnormal enamel formation.  


What are the dental problems as a result of enamel defects?

• Affected teeth can be fragile and may wear or lose enamel easily
• Increase risk of dental decay
• Tooth sensitivity from hot and cold foods and drinks if the underlying dnetine layer is exposed
• Socially, child may feel embarassed to smile

What are the treatment options for enamel defects in children?

The aim of treatment is to reduce tooth sensitivity, strengthen teeth and improve their appearance.  Children with enamel defects should see dentist or paediatric dentist regularly (at least every 6 months).  Type of treatment required will depend on the severity and symptoms of the enamel defect.

• Fluoride treatment (gel, rinse, remineralising cream)
• Restoration includes direct tooth coloured restoration, facing or crown, stainless steel crown.
• Extraction for very badly formed and decayed teeth followed by orthodontic management