Tooth - abnormal shape

Alternative names
Hutchinson incisors; Abnormal tooth shape; Peg teeth; Mulberry teeth; Conical teeth

Definition
The teeth may be irregular or abnormally shaped.

Considerations
The appearance of normal teeth varies, especially the molars. Abnormally shaped teeth can result from many different conditions. Specific diseases can have a profound effect on tooth shape, tooth color, time of appearance, or absence of teeth.

Common Causes

     
  • Congenital syphilis  
  • Cerebral palsy  
  • Ectodermal dysplasia, hypohidrotic  
  • Incontinentia pigmenti achromians  
  • Cleidocranial dysostosis  
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome  
  • Ellis-van Creveld syndrome

Call your health care provider if

If the shape of your child’s teeth appears to be abnormal, consult a dentist or other health care provider.

What to expect at your health care provider’s office
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include:

     
  • Does the child have any disorders that may cause abnormal tooth shape?  
  • At what age did the teeth appear?  
  • In what order did the teeth appear?  
  • Are there other tooth abnormalities (color, spacing)?  
  • What other symptoms are also present?

The physical examination will include thorough mouth examination and examination of the teeth.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed may include dental X-rays.

Johns Hopkins patient information

Last revised: December 5, 2012
by David A. Scott, M.D.

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All ArmMed Media material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.