Ulceration of the Tongue in a Neonate or Infant Due to Dental Trauma (Riga-Fede Disease)

 

Patient selection: neonate or infant

 

Key features:

(1) presence of lower deciduous incisors, especially if natal

(2) ulceration of the lingual frenum/frenulum on the ventral surface of the tongue

 

Risk factors:

(1) male gender

(2) neurologic disorder

(3) family of natal teeth

 

Complications:

(1) granulation tissue or a reactive fibrous mass may form at the site of the trauma if the injury is prolonged.

(2) bleeding

 

Alternative diagnoses need to be excluded.