Genetic Causes of Congenital Tooth Agenesis

Differential gene expression and mutations have significant ramifications on dental development, especially regarding odontoblast development in both the primary and permanent dentition. One of the most significant effects is tooth agenesis, a condition where an individual has one or more missing teeth. This paper will expound the prevalence, major symptoms, genetic precursors, associated conditions, and health implications of congenital tooth agenesis. Although many genetic factors, external influences, and inheritance patterns contribute to the development of tooth agenesis in an individual, the three primary genes involved are MSH Homeobox 1 (MSX1), Paired Box Protein 9 (PAX9), and Axis Inhibition Protein 2 (AXIN2). The expression of these genes have a significant impact on the growth of the functional form of teeth, and this paper will investigate the connection between gene expression and its molecular impact during various stages of odontoblast development.