What is dental hypodontia?
Sarah Richards
Published Apr 21, 2026
Hypodontia is genetic in origin and usually involves the absence of from 1 to 5 teeth. Oligodontia is genetic as well and is the term used to describe a condition in which six or more teeth are missing. Hypodontia/oligodontia/
anodontia
Anodontia is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the congenital absence of all primary or permanent teeth. It is divided into two subsections, complete absence of teeth or only some absence of teeth. It is associated with the group of skin and nerve syndromes called the ectodermal dysplasias.
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› wiki › AnodontiaWhat is the cause of hypodontia?
Hypodontia is usually the result of a problem with the band of tissue under the gums (dental lamina) where the teeth form. The most common cause of these problems is heredity or family history. A mutation of one of the specific genes which help form the dental lamina properly can lead to hypodontia.What teeth are missing in hypodontia?
Hypodontia is uncommon in the deciduous dentition. The most commonly missing teeth are the third molars, mandibular second molars, maxillary permanent lateral incisors, and maxillary second premolars.What happens if you have hypodontia?
Additionally, missing teeth may pose functional concerns, as the other teeth in the mouth can move into the empty space and shift how the teeth come together. Ultimately, hypodontia can lead to problems with speech, gum damage and insufficient bone growth, as the DRJ review notes.Can hypodontia be fixed?
Treatments for hypodontiaFixed porcelain ceramic bridges or removable partial dentures can fill in the spaces left by missing teeth, in order to create an attractive dental appearance. Braces can often be used to realign the teeth to close the gap, though this may require reshaping of adjacent teeth.