Monitoring of the Inverted Relation of Gingival Pads in a Non-Syndromic Infant

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Monitoring the occlusal relationship of the infant’s gum pads is not a common practice in pediatric dentistry. In general, pediatric dentists are used to observe the conformation of the arches and clinical findings that may be outside of the infant’s normal oral anatomy. Here we tested the hypothesis that intervention before eruption of the primary dentition will minimize anterior crossbite in the primary dentition. To address our hypothesis, we used one case to demonstrate the importance of monitoring the relationship of the gum pads and primary teeth eruption to avoid possible deviations in the pattern of orofacial development and prevent future malocclusions.MATERIALS AND METHODS: After proper consenting and anamnesis, an inverted relationship of the gum pads was observed in a 7-month-old baby while sleeping and at occlusal rest. Given that the patient was exclusively breastfeeding, adjustments of the catch were made, such as a greater opening towards the areola and nipple, and adjustments in the position and posture of the baby.RESULTS: During the eruption phase of the anterior teeth, an anterior crossbite was observed. Caregivers were prescribed exercises that were to be performed in the maxillary and mandibular arches to stimulate maxillary growth and guide the posture of the mandible. The exercises were intensified during the eruption phase of the lateral incisors and molars and the occlusion was stabilized with bilateral masticatory guidance and different textures to be offered during food transition. CONCLUSION: Based on the results observed for this case, the interventions allowed for a more satisfactory occlusion.