Complete Oral Rehabilitation with Total Dentures in a Patient with Intellectual Disability

Abstract

Introduction: Total edentulism is defined as the absence of all teeth in both the maxilla and the mandible, and represents a condition that significantly affects the quality of life, by compromising essential functions such as mastication, phonation and facial aesthetics. It is also considered a global public health problem, especially among adults over 60 years of age. In the case of people with intellectual disabilities (ID), the situation can be even more complex, as they have a greater risk of developing edentulism due to difficulties in self-care, barriers to accessing dental services, and a higher prevalence of untreated oral diseases. Objective: To rehabilitate a patient with ID using mucosa-supported total dentures, restoring health, function, and aesthetics, thus improving her quality of life. Case presentation: A 55-year-old female patient diagnosed with mild ID and high blood pressure came to the Prosthodontics Specialty Clinic for an evaluation. During the clinical inspection, total edentulism was observed in the maxilla and partial edentulism in the mandible, with only tooth 46 present. Due to the ID, alveolar bone resorption, economic limitations and the patient's poor oral care, it was decided to perform conventional total dentures. Conclusions: Although implant-supported prostheses are an advanced option for edentulous patients, their cost and maintenance limit their access for many patients with ID. In these cases, rehabilitation with mucosa-supported total dentures remains a fundamental alternative, as it allows for the restoration of function, aesthetics, and oral health. Furthermore, when they are adapted to the needs and abilities not only of the patient, but of their caregivers, it contributes to improving their communication, socialisation and quality of life.