Which dental condition is often seen in children with hypophosphatasia?

• A. Delayed eruption of molars
• B. Premature loss of primary incisors
• C. Caries in permanent teeth
• D. Over-retained primary teeth

Answer: (B)

Hypophosphatasia is a rare metabolic bone disorder that affects the mineralization of bone and teeth, primarily due to a deficiency of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase. In children with this condition, one notable dental manifestation is the premature loss of primary incisors. This occurs because the lack of mineralization weakens the dental structures, resulting in increased susceptibility to tooth loss, often well before the normal exfoliation age for primary teeth. This early loss can lead to space maintenance issues and can affect the subsequent eruption of permanent teeth.

While delayed eruption of molars, caries in permanent teeth, and over-retained primary teeth can be seen in various dental conditions or situations, they are not characteristic of hypophosphatasia. The disease specifically leads to complications such as premature tooth loss due to the weakened tooth structure, making the loss of primary incisors a significant and direct consequence of the underlying metabolic condition.