The management of children and adolescents suffering from amelogenesis imperfecta and dentinogenesis imperfecta

Abstract

summary A brief history and the aims of treatment of amelogenesis imperfecta and dentinogenesis imperfecta are described. In a description of a system of management of these conditions the advantages and possibilities of early treatment is stressed. Conserving the primary dentition makes the restoration of the permanent teeth easier because the correct jaw relationships are maintained. Long‐term observation of the developing dentition allows problems to be overcome or intercepted at the most propitious time. Semi‐permanent restorations for the newly erupted permanent teeth and the rationale for their use are described. An approach to providing adolescents with crowns for all their teeth, restoring groups of teeth, is described and the problems of partially erupted teeth are discussed. Some possibilities of simplifying and improving the types of restoration available, such as the use of composite materials as facings, are described. The special needs of young patients and the problems associated with treating them are indicated throughout.