ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is an heterogenous genetic disorder that disturbs the developing enamel structure. This rare ectodermal defect leads to a variety of clinical manifestations due to agenesis, hypoplasia, and/or hypomineralisation of the enamel. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To describe the prosthodontic management of dental anomalies commonly associated with AI. METHODS: By using the classification of Witkop and Rao (1971), the variation in clinical presentation of the different Types of AI are illustrated and discussed, in particular Type I AI and Type 4 AI. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Early diagnosis and prosthodontic management as part of a multidisciplinary, patient-centred approach are key factors to treatment success. Treatment options to address the oral complications are influenced by modifying factors including age, socioeconomic status, type and severity of the disorder, and intraoral status at the time of treatment planning. Ultimately, management includes pain and infection control, provision of aesthetics and restoration of function which may lead to patient satisfaction, psychological well-being and an improved quality of life.
Subject(s)
Amelogenesis Imperfecta/therapy , Dental Prosthesis , Adolescent , Adult , Age Factors , Amelogenesis Imperfecta/classification , Anodontia/therapy , Child , Crowns , Dental Enamel/abnormalities , Dental Prosthesis, Implant-Supported , Denture, Complete , Denture, Partial, Fixed , Esthetics, Dental , Humans , Malocclusion/therapy , Patient Care Planning , Patient Care Team , Patient Satisfaction , Quality of Life , Root Canal Therapy/methods , Vertical Dimension , Young AdultABSTRACT
The main objective of this study was to survey the different maxillofacial defects of patients who presented to the Wits Dental Hospital and to review the methods that have been used to rehabilitate these patients. Forty six patient records were retrieved from patients' files and from final year reports of prosthodontic postgraduate students. The data were used to determine the type of maxillofacial defects that these patients suffered from and the treatment that had been carried out. Duration and cost of treatment was also noted. The study showed that the majority of the patients' defects were caused by cancer resections, followed by trauma, clefts, burns, and infection. Most patients received conventional 'appropriatech' treatments such as the use of adhesive-retained prostheses, whilst a small number received more sophisticated 'high tech' treatments of implant rehabilitation. The need for versatility in the prosthodontic treatment of maxillofacial defects.