Developmental Disturbances of Oral Structure

Childhood developmental disorders have serious adverse impacts on the psychological and social well-being of children and their families. Despite the burden that developmental disorders impose on children and adolescents, most countries do not provide satisfactory care to those in need. These developmental disorders can either be present as a single finding or as a part of syndrome. This chapter focuses on the developmental disorders affecting the teeth, tongue, and lip. The spectrum of these developmental disorders varies widely. In each case, the anomaly is first described, followed by diagnostic information, including the availability of various treatment options. Early diagnosis is often crucial for the effective treatment of functional and developmental aspects. This will improve the prognosis for better functional and aesthetic outcome for these patients and lead to a better quality of life, not only for the patients themselves but also for their families.