Management of Traumatic Ulcerations of Lips in a Case of Huntington’s Disease: A Novel Application of Essix Retainer
Huntington’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by motor, cognitive, and psychiatric symptoms. Dystonia of muscles is a characteristic feature of this condition. A case of Huntington’s disease, with orofacial dystonia, leading to severe uncontrolled biting of the lips, was referred by the Department of Neurology. Deep traumatic ulcerations were found in both upper and lower lips. A simple Essix retainer was fabricated and inserted, which acted as a barrier for the teeth from injuring the lips. The ulcers showed complete resolution in 3 to 4 weeks. The vacuum-formed retainers resulted in a good fit and resisted removal by the uncontrolled contortions of the orofacial muscles. The Essix retainer can be effectively used in improving the quality of life of patients, with Huntington’s disease, having such dystonia-related injuries to lips.