IMPACT OF MESIODENS MANAGEMENT ON THE ORAL HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE OF A CHILD: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: Mesiodens is a supernumerary tooth present in the anterior maxilla. Children with teeth alterations that could affect their facial features may experience harassment and teasing, leading to difficulties in social interaction. Objective: To report a clinical case of treatment in a pediatric patient with mesiodens. Additionally, we aimed to correlate the mesiodens to the quality of life and happiness through the Child Perceptions Questionnaire (CPQ8-10) and the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS). Case report: A 7-year-old patient complaining about a tooth between the upper central incisors and esthetical problems his tooth caused, according to his grandmother. In the initial session, the CPQ8-10 and the SHS were applied. The treatment performed was mesiodent extraction and follow-up. Four months after extraction, teeth 11 and 21 spontaneously repositioned, without the need for orthodontic intervention. The initial results (22 points in CPQ8-10 and mean 2.5 in the ESF) showed a negative impact on quality of life. Six months after the initial session, the questionnaires were reapplied and an improvement in the results was observed (7 points in CPQ8-10 and mean 5.25 in SHS). Conclusion: The correct diagnosis and the best moment for treatment were keys for preventing occlusal problems in a patient with mesiodens. Additionally, mesiodens treatment significantly improved the child’s quality of life and perceived happiness.