Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation of Ectodermal Dysplasia Using 3D-Printed Crowns and Conventional Removable Dentures: A Case Report

Introduction: Ectodermal dysplasia is a rare hereditary condition characterized by developmental defects in ectodermal-derived tissues and organs. In cases of ectodermal dysplasia, missing teeth (anodontia, hypodontia), conically shaped teeth, inadequate development of the alveolar crests, and loss of vertical dimension are observed. Due to the lack of most primary and permanent teeth during childhood, the esthetic and chewing functions of these patients need to be restored with a multidisciplinary treatment approach in the early period. This case report describes the rehabilitation of a child patient with ectodermal dysplasia using three-dimensional (3D) printed crown prostheses for existing upper central teeth and removable prostheses for additional missing teeth. Case Report: The treatment of a 10-year-old child patient who applied to Gazi University, Faculty of Dentistry, due to missing teeth was carried out and completed jointly by the Departments of Pediatric Dentistry and Prosthodontics. The extraoral examination of the patient, who was diagnosed with ectodermal dysplasia, revealed sparse eyebrows, hair, and eyelashes, dry and thin skin, and sagging and swollen lips. Intraoral examination identified only two conical-shaped maxillary central teeth. All procedures to be performed were explained to the patient and their parents, and their consent was obtained. As a result of the prosthetic analysis, it was decided to make a crown restoration for the existing teeth and an upper and lower removable prosthesis for the missing teeth. After tooth preparations, permanent resin crowns were fabricated using 3D printing technology and cemented onto the prepared teeth. The removable prostheses for the upper and lower jaws were completed using traditional methods and delivered to the patient, who was scheduled for follow-up appointments. Conclusion: Early multidisciplinary intervention is crucial for patients with ectodermal dysplasia starting from childhood due to significant tooth loss, aiming to restore both esthetics and functionality. The goal in designing prostheses is to preserve existing teeth, esthetically restore conical-shaped teeth, and prevent resorption of the alveolar ridges. The application of 3D printing in pediatric dentistry holds substantial potential, offering an aesthetically pleasing, durable, and cost-effective alternative for prosthetic restorations in child patients with ectodermal dysplasia.