Enamel hypoplasia refers to the lack of complete development of the tooth enamel. This can be caused by many different types of problems, some having to do with the shape and size of a developing tooth and others having to do with the actual deposition of hard substance into the developing tooth. Enamel hypocalcification refers to the lack of complete deposition of calcium into the developing tooth enamel. Hypocalcification is actually a form of hypoplasia.
Enamel is the outer covering of teeth and it normally has white appearance however, when conditions in the environment interfere with the development of tooth enamel, teeth can take on a discolored, pitted or otherwise unusual appearance.
Bodily influences like fever over extended period or canine distemper virus may cause pitting and discolored enamel surfaces.
Some symptoms of enamel hypoplasia/hypocalcification are:
Irregular, pitted enamel tooth surface with discoloration of diseased enamel and potential exposure of underlying dentin (light brown appearance)
Early or rapid accumulation of plaque (bacteria, food film, dead skin cells and mucin) and calculus (calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate mixed with organic matter) on roughened tooth surface
Possible gingivitis and/or accelerated periodontal/gum disease
