Dental Management and Prosthetic Rehabilitation of Patients Suffering from Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Report of Two Case Histories

The prosthetic restoration and dental long-term care of two oligodont male cousins suffering from X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia is described in two case histories. The first patient was provided with three removable prostheses between ages 5 and 12, and the second patient was restored twice by tooth- and implant-supported dentures within an observation period of 10 years. In both patients, implants were placed in the growing jaw (both arches) in order to enhance denture retention by single attachments and/or a palatinal bar. In one patient, loss of one maxillary implant occurred 3 years after implant exposure and 2 years after the provision of the implant-supported denture. In the second patient, after completion of growth and preceding bone augmentation, further implants facilitated an improved removable maxillary restoration. In both patients, an orthodontic alignment and reshaping of the conical anterior teeth by means of resin or full-ceramic crowns was applied to improve the esthetic appearance. Patients with HED require a consistent lifelong attendance comprised of oral hygiene, denture maintenance, and refitting. In oligo-/anodont children, the placement of implants in selected regions may be useful for the enhancement of denture retention. However, due to poor bone quality and volume, implant failure may occur.