Amelogenesis imperfecta is defined as?

• A. Enamel overgrowth.
• B. Heritable enamel formation defect causing enamel hypoplasia or hypomineralization; teeth discolored, worn, more caries.
• C. Heritable dentin defect with opalescent dentin.
• D. Abnormal tooth eruption.

Answer: (B)

Amelogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary defect in enamel formation. This means the enamel created during tooth development is abnormal, either thinner than normal (hypoplasia) or improperly mineralized (hypomineralization). Because of this, teeth appear discolored, wear more quickly, and are more prone to caries since the enamel surface is compromised. It’s not an issue of enamel overgrowth, a dentin (tooth core) defect, or eruption problems—those conditions involve different tissues or processes.