Missing teeth, sometimes known as edentulism, occur when one or more teeth are absent from the mouth. Tooth loss can result from various factors, including dental decay, gum disease, trauma, or certain health conditions. Although tooth loss can significantly affect your overall dental health, it is crucial to identify and address it. The consequences can include changes in the alignment of other teeth, which can impact your ability to chew and your general well-being. It also affects speech, self-esteem, and nutrition.
By Able Health I Medically reviewed by Dr. Alireza Estedlal
Page last reviewed: February 2024 I Next review due: February 2026
Hypodontia is the medical term for the congenital absence of certain teeth. This condition is a type of dental agenesis, which refers to teeth that are congenitally absent, meaning you were born with the issue. An individual with hypodontia has between 1 and 6 missing teeth (excluding wisdom teeth). It typically affects between 2% and 8% of the population and can occur in anyone.
While hypodontia can affect any part of the mouth, the teeth most commonly missing in those with the condition include:
The main sign of hypodontia is having between one and six congenitally missing teeth, which can occur anywhere in the mouth, except for wisdom teeth. This condition can affect both primary (baby) teeth and permanent (adult) teeth. Additionally, individuals with hypodontia may have teeth that are smaller than usual or peg-shaped. Gaps and spaces between existing teeth are also common.
On the other hand, hypodontia may be indicative of certain genetic conditions. For example, some individuals with missing teeth may exhibit symptoms of ectodermal dysplasia, which can also cause issues such as:
Hypodontia is considered a birth defect, and children are likely to inherit the condition from their biological parents. In some cases, hypodontia may occur in infants and children who have experienced certain diseases and infections or undergone treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy during critical stages of tooth development.
Typically, individuals with hypodontia have an irregularity in their dental lamina, a band of tissue beneath the gums where teeth develop. Most often, hypodontia is related to a family history of the condition. However, various factors can also contribute to missing teeth.
Hypodontia may occur alongside other disorders or conditions such as:
Several genes play a role in the occurrence of hypodontia, including:
The inheritance of hypodontia can follow various patterns based on the specific gene involved. Like many genetic conditions, healthcare providers typically determine the inheritance pattern by examining the status of both sets of genes—one inherited from each biological parent.
Hypodontia is often diagnosed through dental X-rays, which can confirm the absence of teeth. During an examination, the dentist will also check for other symptoms of hypodontia, such as peg-shaped teeth, small teeth, and gaps between teeth.
Treatment options for hypodontia can include:
Children with missing teeth can use partial dentures until they are old enough for alternative treatments.
Since hypodontia is generally inherited, it cannot be prevented. However, having hypodontia does not necessarily mean you will pass it on to your children.
If your child primary teeth have not erupted or come through the gums by age 4, or if the permanent teeth have not emerged by age 14, it is important to see a dentist for evaluation. Consult your dentist during regular appointments if you have concerns about your child’s missing teeth.
Hypodontia is characterised by the congenital absence of one to six teeth. While this condition can cause difficulties with eating and speaking, it is highly treatable. Consult your dentist about treatment options to improve your smile, self-confidence, and overall quality of life if you or your child has missing teeth.