How does Cleidocranial Dysplasia affect your teeth? Cleidocranial Dysplasia (CCD) is a rare genetically inherited condition that mainly affects the teeth and bone. People affected with this syndrome show abnormalities in the physical features like short stature, hypermobility of the shoulders, supernumerary teeth, and other distinctive features. This is also known as cleidocranial dysostosis but most people are not aware of this ailment because it affects about 1 in one million people. Our dentists have explained the impact of this generalized bone disease on dental health and oral care solutions available to correct facial malformations.
What causes Cleidocranial Dysplasia? CCD is primarily caused by mutations in the RUNX2 gene. The RUNX2 gene plays an important role in instructing other genes to make proteins and cells (osteoblasts) that build bones teeth, and cartilage. When there is a mutation in this gene, it affects the differentiation in the pathway of odontoblasts, producing non-functional proteins so that the alterations in the bone & teeth formation process occur. Thus it triggers clavicular and dental abnormalities. Surprisingly, certain people with CCD do not have any RUNX2 gene mutation. The reason is yet unknown.
What are the physical abnormalities caused by CCD? Low bone density Underdeveloped collar bones