# Application of a Conservative Prosthodontic Approach in the Rehabilitation of a 10-Year-Old Child with Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia

## TL;DR

A 10-year-old child with a rare genetic condition affecting teeth and other tissues was successfully treated with a conservative dental prosthesis, improving their function, appearance, and self-esteem.

## Contribution

The paper presents a novel conservative prosthodontic approach tailored for a pediatric patient with hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia.

## Key findings

- A maxillary overdenture and resin-bonded bridge improved the child's oral function and esthetics.
- The treatment preserved alveolar bone and supported psychosocial well-being.
- The prosthesis showed good adaptation after three months with positive feedback from the patient and parents.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED) is a rare hereditary disorder affecting ectoderm-derived tissues including teeth, hair, and sweat glands. The dental abnormalities associated with HED, such as oligodontia and conical teeth, often result in significant functional, esthetic, and psychosocial challenges, particularly during childhood. Methods: A 10-year-old child presented with psychosocial concerns related to missing and malformed teeth. Clinical examination revealed oligodontia, conical anterior teeth, and a resorbed mandibular ridge. Based on clinical findings and a positive family history, a diagnosis of HED with significant dental involvement was confirmed. Results: A conservative prosthodontic approach was selected. A maxillary overdenture was fabricated over the retained primary teeth to enhance retention and preserve the alveolar bone, and a resin-bonded bridge was placed in the mandible due to poor ridge anatomy. The treatment restored oral function and esthetics and improved the child’s self-esteem. A recall visit after three months confirmed good prosthesis adaptation and a positive response from the patient and parents. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of early, conservative, and developmentally appropriate prosthetic rehabilitation in pediatric patients with HED. Interim prostheses can significantly improve oral function, appearance, and psychosocial well-being while preserving future treatment options as the child matures.