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Macroglossia
Nikolaos Topouzelis1, Christos Iliopoulos, Olga Elpis Kolokitha
1Department of Orthodontics, Dental School of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
International Dental Journal
|May 11, 2011
Summary
Macroglossia, an enlarged tongue, can cause significant stomatognathic, breathing, and speech issues. Treatment varies by cause, often involving addressing underlying conditions or surgical intervention for tongue size reduction.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Genetics
Background:
- Macroglossia, or enlarged tongue, is typically diagnosed clinically.
- Pseudomacroglossia presents a normal-sized tongue appearing large due to surrounding structures.
- Numerous causes necessitate varied classifications for macroglossia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define macroglossia and pseudomacroglossia.
- To outline the diverse etiologies and classifications of macroglossia.
- To detail the consequences and treatment modalities for macroglossia.
Main Methods:
- Clinical diagnosis of enlarged tongue.
- Review of proposed classifications for macroglossia.
- Analysis of associated stomatognathic, respiratory, and speech dysfunctions.
- Evaluation of treatment strategies based on etiology.
Main Results:
- Macroglossia leads to stomatognathic system malfunction, breathing and speech difficulties.
- Associated findings include increased mandible size, tooth spacing, and orthodontic abnormalities like diastema.
- Treatment is etiology-dependent, encompassing systemic disease correction, surgery, or radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Macroglossia presents with varied clinical manifestations and consequences.
- Effective management requires identifying the underlying cause for targeted treatment.
- Addressing orthodontic abnormalities is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
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