Dental Management of Generalised Developmental Defect of Enamel in A Child with Global Developmental Delay

Abstract

Development Defect of Enamel (DDE) although not common, can bring about serious sequelae and needs immediate action. If we leave the teeth untreated, many complications such as poor dental aesthetics, chipping of teeth and dental pain often set in. These complications are further aggravated if the patient has any coexisting medical issues, such as Global Developmental Delay (GDD). Children with GDD often exhibit poor oral health with an abundance of plaque that leads to caries and periodontal disease progression because of poor motor and cognitive development. Many of them also exhibit negative behaviour toward dental treatment. This case describes the dental care for a Global Developmental Delay (GDD) child with sporadic generalised Development Defect of Enamel (DDE). The case management touches on the appropriate behaviour guidance strategies used to aid the child’s unfavourable behaviour towards treatment and the restorative treatment performed to preserve the structural durability of the affected teeth in a general dental setting.