Early Tooth Loss in Children: A Warning Sign of Childhood Hypophosphatasia

Premature exfoliation of primary teeth may be the first manifestation of this serious condition and the general dental practitioner plays an important role in recognizing dental anomalies and referring patients at an appropriate time. This is imperative to ensuring early diagnosis and good quality patient care. This article describes the case of a 4-year-old boy affected by childhood hypophosphatasia, who presented with premature exfoliation of his primary teeth as the first manifestation of this condition. An overview of the condition is outlined including a discussion of the likelihood of permanent dentition involvement. Clinical relevance: Oral manifestations of hypophosphatasia may be the first and the only signs of this condition and may be the basis upon which a diagnosis is made.