Dental implant patients with ectodermal dysplasia: Current approaches

Abstract

In cases of ectodermal dysplasia (ED); anodontia, hypodontia, conic teeth, underdeveloped crests, vertical size loss and presence of cleft lip and palate may occur due to developmental defects in ectoderm-origin organs and tissues. In such patients, alternative rehabilitation methods are required because of insufficient areas for denture retention. Dental implants are one of the alternative methods to enhance retention. In order to plan the best customized implant treatment, a multidisciplinary approach consisting of a pediatric dentist, an orthodontist, a prosthodontist and a maxillofacial surgeon would be helpful. There are two important concerns related to implant application: implants do not have physiological movement and eruption capacity and the effect of denture on growth. The most important reason of implant use in growing children is bone protection. Thus, insufficient bone volume/mass is prevented through implant placement in ED patients who have alveolar crest resorption caused by congenitally absent teeth. long-term clinical trials supporting the use of dental implants in children. Long term clinical studies are needed supported the use of dental implants in children.