Document Type : Review Article

Abstract

Introduction: Amelogenesis imperfecta (AI) is an inherited disorder which alters enamel structure. The primary clinical problems of these patients include poor esthetic, tooth hypersensitivity and loss of occlusal vertical dimension due to rapid wearing of dentition. The aim of this study was to review AI and various treatment plans used for these patients. Materials and Methods: This review study was carried out by running a search in library sources and Pubmed, ISI Web of Science and ISC websites from 1975 to 2011, using amelogenesis imperfecta, enamel defects and treatment as the key words. Results: The inheritance pattern and prevalence of AI varies among populations and in addition to enamel defects, other dental and skeletal manifestations may also be present in these patients. Different treatment options have been proposed for these patients, including microabrasion, gold or stainless steel crowns, all-ceramic and metal-ceramic crowns, porcelain laminate veneers, onlays and composite resin restorations. Conclusion: In some severe cases, designing an optimum treatment plan in AI patients can be challenging and an interdisciplinary approach is usually necessary to evaluate diagnosis and treatment problems of patients, using a combination of periodontal, orthodontic, orthognathic surgery and restorative treatments.   Key words: Amelogenesis imperfecta, Tooth enamel, Treatment