<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

Over the years I've been on this listserv, the subject of tooth enamel
defects being related to CD has come up several times. I searched the
archives to refresh my memory, and it seems that it may not be uncommon
for tooth enamel defects to occur, especially in celiac children.

This seems to be an issue for my seven-year-old son (diagnosed at 15
mos). As his 6-year molars have come in (finally), already he's had to
have several "defects" filled to prevent decay. His dentist says there
may be some cosmetic work that will need to be done as the rest of his
permanent teeth come in, as the defects may be fairly dark in color
(this would be the ones that don't need to be filled, I assume).

My questions are: does anyone know what specifically causes these
defects? Is it a specific vitamin or mineral deficiency? Were the ages
of 8 to 15 months that critical in tooth formation (since this was the
only period when my son was ingesting gluten)? And, finally, I'd like to
hear some experiences parents have had with children having these
defects (or from former celiac children themselves): was cosmetic
whitening necessary, is tooth decay an enormous problem, etc, etc.

Thanks for any feedback!

Tami
Minnesota, USA