Tooth agenesis - non formation of the tooth is the most common dental anomaly seen by a dental practitioner. The overall prevalence of this anomaly excluding 3rd molar is 6.4%. But the prevalence varies depending upon the continent – highest of 13.4% in Africa to the lower prevalence of 4.4% in Latin America and Carribbean and it is 1.22 times more prevalent in females1. Congenital missing teeth fewer than 6 teeth are known as hypodontia whereas absence of more than 6 teeth is called as oligodontia. Anodontia, complete absence of teeth, is the extreme form of oligodontia. Tooth agenesis can run in families or can occur sporadically. Familial type can occur either as an isolated dental anomaly or as a part of a syndrome and it can be inherited
