A growth-adjusted digital prosthetic protocol for a child with X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia: a 5-year longitudinal clinical report

A four-year-old boy with X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED) presented with complete anodontia, severe esthetic concerns, and functional limitations. The treatment plan aimed to provide both functional restoration and esthetic improvement, utilizing a fully digital workflow. After a comprehensive clinical and radiographic evaluation, digital cast scanning and 3D analysis were used to create a precise virtual plan for the fabrication of a customized complete denture. The initial dentures were followed by regular follow-up visits at 6-month intervals, with the patient returning for adjustments to accommodate his rapid growth. Over a five-year period of follow-up, the child received updated dentures as his facial and oral structures developed. This approach not only restored the boy’s masticatory, speech, and esthetic functions but also allowed for continuous adaptation of the prostheses as the child grew. This report contributes to the existing literature by introducing a reproducible, quantitative workflow. Unlike purely descriptive digital denture reports, this protocol integrates a quantitative segmented morphometric analysis into a fully digital workflow to support objective, growth‑oriented clinical decision‑making, particularly in distinguishing between conservative relining and the need for complete prosthesis refabrication.