A patient presents with spotted pits and grooves on the outer surfaces of teeth, particularly in the canine and premolar area. What is the likely diagnosis?

• A. Hyperplasia
• B. Erosion
• C. Hypoplasia
• D. Abfraction

Answer: (C)

The description of a patient with spotted pits and grooves on the outer surfaces of teeth, especially in the canine and premolar regions, suggests a diagnosis of hypoplasia. Dental hypoplasia refers to a developmental deficiency that results in an enamel that is thinner or less mineralized than normal, leading to the appearance of pits, grooves, and spots on the tooth surface.

Hypoplasia can occur as a result of various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, childhood illness, or systemic conditions during the time of enamel development. The evidence of specific morphological changes, like pits and grooves, aligns well with hypoplastic conditions rather than other dental issues.

In contrast, hyperplasia typically refers to an increase in the number of cells, which wouldn't result in the described surface abnormalities. Erosion involves the chemical dissolution of enamel by acids, leading to a smooth, shiny appearance rather than pitted or grooved surfaces. Abfraction relates to loss of tooth structure at the cervical area of the tooth due to occlusal forces, resulting in wedge-shaped lesions, which also do not match the provided description. Thus, the distinctive features of the enamel alterations described indicate that hypoplasia is the most appropriate diagnosis.