Dental and jawbone abnormalities linked to amelogenesis imperfecta: A retrospective and analytic study comparing panoramic radiographs.

Abstract

Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is a disorder of tooth development characterized by abnormal enamel formation. In order to detect other dental and jawbone abnormalities that could be associated with AI, a retrospective and analytic study was conducted comparing panoramic radiographs of AI and non-AI patients. Digital panoramic radiographs of 60 AI and 60 non-AI patients were examined. Abnormalities in dental number, size, shape, eruption, and in the shape of the dental arches were checked and blindly recorded by two experimented observers. Descriptive statistics using percentages and chi-square test with .05 level of significance value was used. Prevalence of supernumerary teeth, dental agenesis, microdontia, taurodontism, radicular dilacerations, dental inclusions, temporary teeth persistence, and pulp calcifications was significantly higher in AI patients compared to control patients. Prevalence of periapical images, cysts, and hypercementosis was lower in AI patients compared to control patients, with no statistically significant difference. A significant prevalence of mandibular hypoplasia was also noted in AI patients. In addition to enamel defect, panoramic radiography was useful in detecting other dental abnormalities and mandibular hypoplasia associated with AI and should therefore be systematically indicated for AI patients' care.