Early Recognition and Management of Riga Fede Disease Associated with Natal and Neonatal Teeth: A Case Series

Abstract

Riga–Fede disease is a rare traumatic ulcerative lesion of the oral cavity that predominantly affects neonates and young infants. It most commonly involves the ventral surface of the tongue and is usually associated with natal or neonatal teeth, resulting from repetitive mechanical trauma during feeding. If left untreated, the condition may lead to feeding difficulty, dehydration and failure to thrive. Early detection and timely treatment are essential to prevent complications and support the return to normal feeding. This report presents two cases of Riga–Fede disease managed at the Department of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, Sri Siddhartha Dental College and Hospital, Tumkur. The first case involved a 1½-month-old infant with Riga–Fede disease associated with natal teeth, while the second case involved a 26-day-old infant with Riga–Fede disease secondary to neonatal teeth. In both cases, traumatic ulceration of the ventral surface of the tongue resulted from repeated contact with the sharp incisal edges of the mandibular anterior teeth. Extraction of the offending teeth was performed under appropriate clinical precautions, leading to satisfactory healing of the lesions and restoration of normal feeding. These cases emphasise the importance of early recognition and timely intervention in infants presenting with traumatic lingual ulcers associated with natal or neonatal teeth. Prompt management can support rapid resolution of symptoms, prevent nutritional compromise and improve the overall well-being of affected infants.