Extensive sublingual ulceration leads to tongue deformity in a child with delayed development

Abstract

An extensive sublingual ulceration in a two year old girl with delayed development was reported. The severe lesion resulted from repetitive trauma caused by the lower central incisors in combination with uncontrolled movement of the orofacial muscles. Treatment successfully healed the lesion, however an deformity of the tongue remained afterwards. Given this risk, health care providers should be aware of the danger posed by sublingual ulcerations in children with neurologic conditions when the child's lower primary incisors erupt. Early diagnosis and referral to a pediatric dentist can prevent progression of the lesion as well as deformity of the tongue.