Inherited retarded eruption in the permanent dentition

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Genetics
• Human Biology

Background:

• Retarded eruption is a dental anomaly where tooth eruption is significantly delayed.
• Etiological factors include local issues, systemic conditions, and developmental disturbances.
• This study investigates familial cases of retarded eruption with no apparent cause other than inheritance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and analyze cases of retarded eruption with a suspected genetic basis.
• To characterize the clinical features and inheritance patterns of this condition.
• To discuss management strategies for affected individuals.

Main Methods:

• Case series evaluation of 14 individuals (9 males, 5 females) with retarded eruption.
• Pedigree analysis to determine the mode of genetic transmission.
• Clinical examination and dental records review to assess eruption timing, tooth formation, and root morphology.

Main Results:

• Retarded eruption, defined as >3 SD beyond mean eruption figures, affected all permanent teeth and sometimes second primary molars.
• Tooth formation occurred within normal limits, with teeth remaining deeply embedded in jaws, often malpositioned with curved roots.
• Eruption occurred 5-15 years post-normal timing, with teeth moving rapidly into position despite challenges.
• Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern suggested by affected males and females, familial occurrence, and generational transmission.

Conclusions:

• Inherited retarded eruption is a distinct clinical entity characterized by delayed eruption despite normal tooth formation.
• The condition appears to follow an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.
• Management requires a multidisciplinary approach including dental care, aesthetic considerations, and potential surgical or orthodontic treatment.