Postępowanie stomatologiczne u dziecka z porażeniem nerwu twarzowego – Opis przypadku: A case report

Facial palsy refers to severe or complete loss/weakness of facial muscle motor function, which may result from central or peripheral lesions. It is characterized by a reduction or absence of tears, diminished blinking reflex, inability to blow or whistle and deviation of angle of mouth to unaffected side. Though facial paralysis in children has been reported earlier, scant attention has been paid to oral hygiene, dental care considerations, and difficulties encountered by dentist. Facial palsy accompanied by hemiparesis affects the dentofacial structure and results in the inadequate maintenance of oral hygiene due to compromised musculature of the face and the upper extremities. Various preventive strategies should be implemented to improve the oral hygiene and health of these patients. In addition, parents should be positively reinforced and encouraged to do the same. The purpose of this case report is to describe dental treatment, the difficulties and the preventive strategies of a case of right hemiparesis and left side facial paralysis.