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Regional odontodysplasia (Ghost teeth). A case report.
1Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College, Alpakkam Rd., Maduravoyal, Chennai-602102, India.
Summary
Regional odontodysplasia, a rare dental anomaly, causes "ghost teeth" with poor enamel and dentin. Affected teeth require extraction and prosthetic replacement due to poor quality and potential complications.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Developmental Biology
- Oral Pathology
Background:
- Regional odontodysplasia is a rare developmental anomaly of unknown etiology.
- It affects both epithelial (enamel) and mesenchymal (dentin, cementum) tooth components.
- Characterized by short roots, large pulp chambers, and poorly mineralized enamel and dentin.
Observation:
- Teeth exhibit a faint radiolucent appearance, termed "ghost teeth".
- Both deciduous and permanent dentitions can be affected.
- Maxillary predominance (2.5:1) and anterior teeth predilection are noted; females are more commonly affected.
Findings:
- Affected teeth show delayed or absent eruption.
- Poor tooth quality precludes functional rehabilitation.
- Necrosis and facial cellulitis are potential complications of retained teeth.
Implications:
- Extraction and prosthetic replacement are the standard treatment.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications.
- This case highlights regional odontodysplasia affecting the entire right mandibular quadrant.