The aim of this study was to investigate the phenotypic characteristics of maxillary lateral incisors hypodontia (MLIH) in a Caucasian family in northeastern Romania, and to analyze the dental and occlusal aspects consecutive to tooth agenesis. We constructed family’s pedigree and examined clinically and radiographically five of its members. MLIH was transmitted mainly autosomally, with high prevalence in first-degree relatives, incomplete penetrance, variable expressivity and increased risk of recurrence. Additional environmental factors have been suggested as possible mutagens. Common dental (decreased remaining spaces and midline diastema) and occlusal (anterior crossbites) features were observed in the first two cases, and individual features in the third case (persistence of deciduous canine, complete transposition of permanent canines and mandibular anterior dental crowding), consecutive to MLIH. The last two cases – with no MLIH – showed signs common to other related cases. Only one case received complex orthodontic and implant-prosthetic treatment.
Keywords:- autosomal dominant inheritance
- maxillary lateral incisors hypodontia
- non-syndromic hypodontia
- tooth agenesis