Odontogenesis is a consequence of a complex series of reciprocal signal interactions between odontogenic epi-thelium and neural crest-derived odontotgenic mesenchyme. These interactions result from a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Given that a fetus develops in the mother, maternal health and environmental exposures have a great influence on tooth development. In this review, we focused on the key issues in the developmental defects of teeth induced by various types of maternal environmental factors, including environmental endocrine disruptors, joint action of two or more chemical exposures, and maternal health status. This review also discussed the adverse effects of maternal environmental factors on tooth development. These effects include enamel developmental defects, molar incisor hypomineralization, dental fluorosis, hyperdontia and hypodontia. Overall, this review provides a theoretical basis for the prevention of tooth defects in early life, assessment of risks from developmental tooth defects, and advancement of pediatric oral health management.
