Tooth anatomy
Tooth anatomy
Development of baby teeth
Development of baby teeth
Development of permanent teeth
Development of permanent teeth

Tooth - abnormal shape

Definition:
Irregular or abnormal shape to the teeth.

Alternative Names:
Hutchinson incisors; Abnormal tooth shape; Peg teeth; Mulberry teeth; Conical teeth

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:
Call your health care provider if:
  • the shape of your child's teeth appears abnormal.
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 of the disorders (listed in the Causes section) that 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.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider as the cause of abnormal tooth shape, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.

Review Date: 12/7/2001
Reviewed By: Jennifer A. Schwartz, D.M.D., General Dentist, University of Pennsylvania Dental Care Network, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed HealthCare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.