Pediatric Dentistry · single question
Same case (ectodermal dysplasia, no teeth). What is the best treatment option to address the chief complaint?
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Correct answer: C. Conventional removable prostheses
For a young child with ectodermal dysplasia and anodontia/severe hypodontia, CONVENTIONAL REMOVABLE PROSTHESES (dentures/overdentures) are the treatment of choice. They restore function, esthetics, and facilitate normal facial growth and speech development. Implants are contraindicated until skeletal growth is complete. Fixed partial dentures require abutment teeth that may not exist. Removable prostheses can be remade as the child grows.
- A. INCORRECT. Fixed partial dentures require abutment teeth — in severe hypodontia/anodontia, insufficient teeth exist to support fixed prostheses.
- B. INCORRECT. Implant-supported prostheses require complete skeletal growth — contraindicated in children. Implants placed before growth is complete will appear infraoccluded as the jaws grow.
- C. CORRECT. CONVENTIONAL REMOVABLE PROSTHESES (complete or partial dentures, depending on how many teeth exist) are the BEST treatment for young ED patients. They restore function, esthetics, speech, and can be adjusted/remade as the child grows.
- D. INCORRECT. Providing no prosthetic treatment to a child with anodontia/severe hypodontia impairs function, nutrition, speech development, and psychosocial wellbeing.
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