Many children experience oral problems at a young age, especially with newly erupted deciduous teeth. If there are signs of weak texture and yellowish surface, this is likely due to enamel hypoplasia, commonly known as chalky teeth. This condition can be divided into two types: hypoplastic enamel, caused by obstacles during matrix formation resulting in substantial defects; and hypomineralized enamel, where the matrix forms normally but issues arise during mineralization, which may not lead to substantial loss.
Various factors contribute to this issue, including local factors such as damage or infection of deciduous teeth, directly affecting the development of permanent teeth underneath; systemic factors such as high fever in infancy, severe malnutrition, rickets, malnutrition, as well as maternal rubella, toxemia during pregnancy; genetic factors should also not be overlooked.
In terms of treatment, the primary goal is to prevent dental caries, especially for anterior teeth, aesthetic restoration methods can be applied. Specific measures depend on the severity of the condition: mild cases focus on caries prevention, strengthening tooth protection through remineralization and fluoride application; for moderate to severe patients, fluoride treatment or pit and fissure sealants are recommended, with preventive fillings considered for deep fissures; severe defects may explore resin veneers or crown restoration. With appropriate treatment, it can effectively improve caries caused by incomplete enamel development, and achieve good restoration of anterior teeth appearance.
Preventive measures are equally important, including enhancing maternal and child health, timely treatment of cavities in deciduous teeth, annual oral examinations to monitor tooth development, gum health, discoloration, and tooth loss issues. In daily life, parents should emphasize children’s oral hygiene, regularly take them for professional dental check-ups, cultivate good brushing habits, choose suitable toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush for their age, and closely monitor for gum inflammation and other oral issues, ensuring early detection and treatment.
