Orthodontic treatment and follow-up of a patient with cerebral palsy and spastic quadriplegia.
BACKGROUND
This report describes the clinical orthodontic management of a patient with spastic quadriplegia and cerebral palsy. Guidelines to overcome difficulties encountered during the treatment period are suggested.


METHODS
A 13-year-old boy with cerebral palsy and spastic quadriplegia complained of an undesirable oral appearance because of his malocclusion. He had a Class II molar relationship, with severe maxillary and moderate mandibular anterior crowding. Enamel hypoplasia was apparent on all teeth. He had losses of body function and upper extremity function of 70% and 39%, respectively. His physical limitations necessitated a treatment approach that did not rely on patient-dependent appliances. The treatment plan called for maxillary first premolar extractions, mandibular incisor protrusion, and air rotor stripping.


RESULTS
The patient's oral function and esthetic appearance were significantly improved. Aligned dental arches with good occlusion were obtained. The patient's self-confidence improved during the treatment period.


CONCLUSIONS
Physical appearance can influence personality and social acceptability. Corrective orthodontic treatment for patients with physical handicaps can improve not only oral function, but also self-confidence and self-esteem.
Research assistant, Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey. Electronic address: mcifter@yahoo.com.
Muhsin
M
Çifter
Professor, Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Nil
N
Cura
D000293:Adolescent; D002547:Cerebral Palsy / Q000150:complications*; D015897:Comorbidity; D003735:Dental Casting Technique; D004955:Esthetics, Dental; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008310:Malocclusion / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D008312:Malocclusion, Angle Class II / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy*; D009971:Orthodontics, Corrective; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011782:Quadriplegia / Q000150:complications*; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic