A First Look: Determinants of Dental Care for Ectodermal Dysplasia Patients

Ectodermal Dysplasia (ED) is a hereditary disorder characterized by abnormal development of certain tissues and structures of ectodermal origin. The most frequently reported ED syndrome is X-linked hypohidrotic dysplasia, also known as Christ-Siemens-Touraine syndrome, which affects one to seven individuals per 10,000 live births. Orofacial characteristics of this syndrome include anodontia or hypodontia, hypoplastic conical teeth, underdevelopment of the alveolar ridges, frontal bossing, depressed nasal bridge, protuberant lips, and hypotrichosis. The characteristics associated with ED will often result in afflicted individuals having an abnormal appearance. Normal social and psychologic development of young ED patients dictates that they look and feel as normal as possible. Also, a “tell-show-do” approach to treatment is recommended for the young ED patient.The multi-disciplinary treatment can involve composite restorations,fixed, removable, or implant prosthodontics, singly or in combination. Key-words: Ectodermal dysplasia, hypodontia, hypotrichosis, anodontia, hypohydrotic