CRANIOFACIAL DYNAMICS AND TREATMENT-INDUCED FUNCTIONAL CHANGES IN A CASE OF ECTODERMAL DYSPLASIA

Abstract

Aim: to assess the dynamics of craniofacial structures in an ED patient treated and followed from age 9 to 24 years and detect potential reciprocal influences between anatomic structures and dental treatment. Methods. Craniofacial dynamics were assessed using cephalograms taken at ages 11, 15, 17 and 24. Results. The initial mild class III skeletal pattern remained, with a normally developed maxilla more to the lower limits of standard and a mandible more to the middle of normal ranges. Restored function favored narrowing of the gonial angle down to normal values. Initially very low, the tongue gained a normal high position after provision of a well-retained implant-supported lower denture. Head posture improved. Consistent enlargement of posterior airway and decrease of initially hypertrophic adenoid occurred by age 15. Conclusions. Early prosthetic restorations in ED patients can induce favorable anatomic and posture changes, favoring close-to-standard craniofacial development within a mild class III pattern

Keywords

• craniofacial dynamics
• ectodermal dysplasia
• function