Ectodermal Dysplasia: Multidisciplinary synergy

AIM: The aim of this investigation is to show that these genetic birth defects need a multidisciplinary approach that permits the synergism of each different discipline’s specialized expertise and skills into a comprehensive therapy. MATERIALS: The Ectodermal Dysplasia is a hereditary disease characterized by a congenital dysplasia of one or more ectodermal structures and their accessory appendages. Common manifestations include defective hair follicles and eyebrows, frontal bossing with prominent supraorbital ridges, nasal bridge depression, and protuberant lips, anodontia or hypodontia, conical teeth, and, consequently, generalized spacing. RESULTS: The ideal treatment plane is best achieved using a multidisciplinary approach. CONCLUSIONS: Orthodontics and osseointegrated implants can provide a treatment option that will result in major improvement in the quality and long-term prognosis of oral rehabilitation. By our experience, the psychologic effects of the surgical, orthodontic and prosthodontic treatment provided were remarkable for a teenage individual who had suffered peer ridicule during the critical stages of personality development.