Our Summary

This research paper focuses on craniosynostosis, a condition where the sutures or joints in a baby’s skull fuse together too early, causing issues with head and facial growth. This can lead to dental problems, known as malocclusion, where the teeth don’t align properly. The researchers wanted to understand the type of dental problems associated with craniosynostosis and how they were treated.

They examined the cases of 55 patients who had craniosynostosis, some of whom had other syndromes as well. They found that the majority of these patients had a certain type of malocclusion (class III), especially those with other syndromes and those with a certain type of skull shape (brachycephaly). Another type of skull shape (scaphocephaly) was associated with a different type of malocclusion (class II).

The researchers found that most of the patients needed a combination of orthodontic treatment and surgery to correct their dental problems. In a few cases, only orthodontic treatment was needed. They found that the treatment was generally successful in achieving good alignment of the teeth.

The research concluded that early treatment of craniosynostosis does not prevent dental problems from developing. It suggests these problems could be due to a number of factors, including the shape of the jaw due to the skull deformity, issues with the facial sutures, or diseases of the bone and cartilage system. The study highlights the need for ongoing dental treatment, including braces and sometimes surgery, for patients with craniosynostosis.

FAQs

  1. What is craniosynostosis and how does it relate to dental malocclusion?
  2. What treatment methods are used for dental malocclusion associated with craniosynostosis?
  3. Does early management of craniosynostosis prevent the occurrence of malocclusion?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about orthognathic surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and optimal results. This may include maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding hard or chewy foods, and attending follow-up appointments as scheduled. Additionally, it is important to communicate any concerns or issues to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients with craniosynostosis, both syndromic and nonsyndromic, are typically recommended orthognathic surgery to correct their dental malocclusion. This includes patients with class III malocclusion, especially those with syndromic cases and brachycephalies. Patients with scaphocephalies are associated with class II malocclusions. Orthognathic surgery is often performed after the end of growth in conjunction with orthodontic treatment to achieve stable optimal final dental occlusion. Early management of craniosynostosis does not prevent the occurrence of malocclusion, which may require orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery for correction.

Timeline

  1. Patients with craniosynostosis present with facial growth restrictions and dental malocclusions.
  2. Patients undergo facial growth monitoring and occlusal management to determine the best treatment plan.
  3. Orthognathic surgery is performed after the end of growth to correct the malocclusion.
  4. Dental occlusion is evaluated clinically and radiographically before and after treatment.
  5. Orthodontic treatment is often necessary in conjunction with orthognathic surgery to achieve optimal dental occlusion.
  6. Optimal dental occlusion is achieved in the majority of patients, with stable results in most cases.
  7. Early management of craniosynostosis does not prevent the occurrence of malocclusion, necessitating orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery for management.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of malocclusion do I have and how is it related to my craniosynostosis?
  2. What are the potential risks and benefits of orthognathic surgery for correcting my malocclusion?
  3. How long will the recovery process be after orthognathic surgery?
  4. Will I need to undergo orthodontic treatment before or after the surgery?
  5. What are the long-term outcomes and stability of the correction achieved through orthognathic surgery?
  6. Are there alternative treatment options available for correcting my malocclusion?
  7. How experienced are you in performing orthognathic surgery for patients with craniosynostosis?
  8. Can you provide me with information on any potential complications or side effects that may arise from the surgery?
  9. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or treatments after the surgery?
  10. How soon after the surgery will I be able to resume normal activities and eating habits?

Reference

Authors: Ferri J, Schlund M, Touzet-Roumazeille S. Journal: J Craniofac Surg. 2021 Jan-Feb 01;32(1):141-148. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000007154. PMID: 33027175