Most commonly, gingival overgrowth is a plaque-induced inflammatory process, which can be modified by systemic disease or medications. However, rare genetic conditions can result in gingival overgrowth with non-plaque-induced aetiology. It is also important to appreciate the potential differential diagnoses of other presentations of enlarged gingival tissues; some may be secondary to localised trauma or non-plaque-induced inflammation and, albeit rarely, others may be manifestations of more sinister diseases or lesions. A definitive diagnosis will then enable an appropriate management strategy. This paper aims to discuss clinical features and diagnoses for conditions presenting with gingival overgrowth and other enlargements of gingival tissues.
The results support the view that there is a potential risk for heat-induced pulpal injury when light-curing RBCs. The risk is greater during bonding and with high energy, as compared to low-energy output systems. As the extent of tolerable thermal trauma by the pulp tissues is unknown, care and consideration should be given to the choice of LCU and the exposure time when curing RBCs, and especially during bonding.
Severe hypodontia is the absence of six or more permanent teeth and is relatively uncommon (estimated prevalence of 0.1-0.2%). This condition may have considerable functional, aesthetic and psychological implications for the patient, as well as presenting a significant challenge for the restorative dentist. There are a number of additional dental and craniofacial features that are seen frequently in patients with severe hypodontia that may complicate the provision of restorative treatment. These patients typically present at a young age and are likely to require lifelong support from the dental team. Initially this may be limited to oral health education and delivery of effective preventative regimes in childhood. Where required, missing teeth may be replaced using conventional removable and fixed prosthodontics as well as implant retained restorations. This article, part one of a two-part series, deals with the assessment of patients and factors to consider when treatment planning for the provision of conventional restorative solutions in severe hypodontia.
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