REGIONAL ODONTODYSPLASIA IN A NIGERIAN CHILD: A Case Report and Literature review

Regional odontoplasia in Nigerian child

Abstract

Background: Regional odontodysplasia also known as ‘ghost 
teeth’ is a rare developmental disorder whose aetiology is unknown. 
The suspected factors linked with the condition are trauma, 
infections etc. It affects both primary and permanent dentition with 
a female predilection, usually localized to one segment of the jaw 
and involved teeth appear yellowish-brown, with rough surfaces 
and are prone to fracture. Radiographically, enamel and dentine are 
thinner than normal and lack demarcation, pulp chambers are large 
with short roots. Managements of these cases should be based on 
esthetics and functional needs as well as the degree of involvement 
of the tooth. 
 
Objective: There is dearth of studies on this topic in Nigeria, hence 
we have decided to report this incidental finding of regional 
odontodysplasia seen in our center.  
 
Case report:  A 6-year-old girl presented to the Paediatric clinic 
with complaint of pain from a tooth in the upper right quadrant. On 
examination, presence of mobile 55 that appeared yellowish with 
rough surfaces without any carious lesion. Radiograph showed lack 
of distinction between enamel and dentine, large pulp chamber with 
short roots of tooth 55 and unerupted 16. Management was 
extraction of affected tooth with of stainless-steel crown placement 
on 16 after eruption. Patient is still being monitored. 

Conclusion: Regional odontodysplasia although rare can present at 
any time. Management of regional odontodysplasia should be 
approached individualistically based on patient’s presenting 
complaint.