Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What dental condition is indicated by the absence of enamel on teeth in a bitewing radiograph?

1. Amelogenesis imperfecta

2. Dentinogenesis imperfecta

3. Ectodermal dysplasia

4. Hyperdontia

The correct answer is: Amelogenesis imperfecta

The absence of enamel on teeth as seen in a bitewing radiograph is indicative of amelogenesis imperfecta. This is a genetic condition that affects the development of enamel, leading to thin, poorly formed, or completely absent enamel. In the case of amelogenesis imperfecta, the enamel's structure and mineralization processes are disrupted, resulting in varying degrees of enamel deficiency, which could lead to increased susceptibility to dental caries, sensitivity, and aesthetic concerns. Other conditions listed, such as dentinogenesis imperfecta, involve abnormal dentin formation rather than enamel absence. Ectodermal dysplasia is characterized by abnormalities in ectodermal structures, which can include missing or malformed teeth, but its primary manifestation isn’t specifically enamel absence. Hyperdontia refers to the condition of having extra teeth and does not relate to the structure or presence of enamel.