Early prosthetic rehabilitation of severe oligodontia with implant–retained overdenture: A case report

Background: Ectodermal dysplasia is a rare hereditary disease, characterized by defects in the development of two to five tissues derived from the embryonic ectoderm. As a part of the manifestation, oligodontia can occur. The implant-prosthetic therapy at an early age is a unique solution for providing good orofacial functions and a satisfactory aesthetic appearance in accordance with the social and emotional maturity of the patient. Case Presentation: The authors report the clinical case of a 8-year-old Caucasian boy with X - linked hypohydrotic ectodermal dysplasia and severe oligodontia (3 permanent and 3 deciduous teeth in the upper jaw and 1 permanent tooth in the lower jaw). In this patient, a functional rehabilitation with a conventional denture was not possible without the support of dental implants. Conclusion: Inserting dental implants in the growing skeleton is still controversial. However, this approach was necessary for this patient with ectodermal dysplasia associated with severe oligodontia to restore oral function and appearance. A multidisciplinary approach was mandatory. It seems that with carefully determined time point of the implant insertion, properly chosen insertion site and full information of the patient and parents on all aspects of implant insertion and rehabilitation, this kind of rehabilitation might be a good option when other prosthetic means are not possible or have failed.