Ectodermal dysplasias are caused by a change, or mutation, in a gene. ED can be passed on from parents or can occur when there is no family history of the condition.
Parents should know they did not do anything to cause the gene mutation that is present in a child with ED.
Ectodermal dysplasias have a variety of signs and symptoms, which can differ depending on the type of ED. Signs and symptoms can vary even among members of a family who have the same type of ED. Mouth problems related to ED may include:
Thinner or softer-than-average tooth enamel, which may lead to an increase in tooth decay (cavities).
Missing; pointed, globe-shaped or smaller-than-normal teeth, or teeth that are widely spaced.
Abnormally positioned teeth and jaw.
Reduced saliva, leading to dry mouth.
Cleft lip or palate.
Treatment depends on your child’s age. Some treatments can be done only when the head, jaw, and face are finished growing.
Treatment for younger children can include partial or full dentures. For older children, restorations such as crowns or veneers to cover teeth or dental implants may be recommended. The goal of treatment is to restore the function of the teeth and mouth as much as possible early in the child’s life.
Treatment is usually done in stages because the child’s face and jaw are growing and primary (baby) teeth will be replaced, over time, by permanent (adult) teeth. As your child’s mouth grows and permanent teeth erupt, recommendations for other types of treatment may be made, such as the need for orthodontia (braces) to correct the position of the teeth and assure their proper function. The dentist will need to check your child’s mouth and teeth regularly to make sure that any needed adjustments are made as your child grows.
More permanent solutions are recommended for adults with ectodermal dysplasia, including fixed tooth restorations, such as dental implants. Oral surgery may also be recommended to improve the shape of the dental arches and correct related issues within the mouth.
Diagnosing ectodermal dysplasia is not always easy, and confirming a diagnosis may require consulting with several health care professionals. The condition is commonly suspected by a dentist when a child’s teeth do not come in or the teeth appear to have an irregular shape. The dentist will look at your child’s mouth to observe whether there are any missing teeth or problems with tooth enamel. The dentist may also take x-rays to see if there are teeth that have not yet come in.
If the dental exam suggests ectodermal dysplasia, the dentist will refer you to a medical geneticist or a doctor with experience in ectodermal dysplasias to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, a genetic test may help diagnose ED.
Having an accurate diagnosis will help you get the right team of health care professionals in place to manage the condition.
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