Dental agenesis in hemifacial microsomia

Area of Science:

• Craniofacial anomalies
• Developmental biology
• Dental genetics

Background:

• Hemifacial microsomia (HM) is a congenital condition affecting facial asymmetry.
• It originates from abnormal development of the first and second branchial arches.
• Understanding dental anomalies in HM is crucial for treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of tooth agenesis and dental inclusions in patients with Hemifacial microsomia.
• To explore potential correlations between HM severity and these dental anomalies.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination of 63 HM patients (27 male, 36 female; ages 7-43).
• Analysis of photographs and radiographic data.
• Documentation of monolateral and bilateral HM presentations.

Main Results:

• Tooth agenesis was observed in 11 patients (at least one missing tooth on the affected side).
• Dental inclusions were noted in 5 patients.
• A positive correlation was found between HM severity and the likelihood of tooth agenesis.
• Third molars were the most frequently missing teeth.
• No significant relationship was found between HM severity and dental inclusions.

Conclusions:

• Tooth agenesis is a notable dental anomaly in Hemifacial microsomia patients.
• The severity of HM appears to influence the occurrence of tooth agenesis.
• Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms linking HM severity to dental development.