My name is Caleb Locke. I’m 9 years old, and my wish is to have a full set of teeth. I have 4 upper teeth all misshaped, 2 of which are centrally located but not fully erupted. My dental team consists of a maxillofacial surgeon, prosthodontist, and an orthodontist. My x-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia has left…
Why We Need The Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act
The Abbott family spent several years trying to figure out why their young son, Aidan, was missing teeth and had recurring high fevers. Finally, they received an answer. Their son was affected by ectodermal dysplasia. Professionals assured them that insurance would cover the lifetime of dental care he would need to restore his teeth. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Denial after denial catapulted the Abbotts on a journey to fight for insurance benefits not only for their son, but all families affected by congenital anomalies. They found an ally in Congress who co-sponsored the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act.
My $35,000 (So Far) Smile
Cody Snell has paid $35,000 out of pocket – so far – to replace teeth he never had due to ectodermal dysplasia. At 33, he knows that amount will climb since he faces a lifetime of dental care costs. That is, unless the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act is passed. He is advocating for this legislation to assure that he, his affected daughter and all families with his condition get the insurance coverage they need for their medically necessary care.
ELSA Reintroduced in Congress
ELSA took another leap forward today! The Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act was introduced in the new U.S. Congress with bi-partisan support in both the House and the Senate. 28 organizations are now supporting the bill which will provide insurance coverage for medical and dental care due to congenital anomalies such as ectodermal dysplasia.
Becky Abbott Joins NFED Staff
Meet the newest member of the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias staff. Becky Abbott will help us serve families affected be ectodermal dysplasias by managing the treatment and research programs. Learn why our mission is personal for this rare disease advocate.
Hazel Glows With Her New Teeth
Your five-year-old daughter wearing her first dentures can be surreal. Just ask Sarah Hamilton. The mom shares about how the teeth have impacted Hazel’s eating and speech and how they are having to battle their insurance to get benefits.
Breast Development and Ectodermal Dysplasias
Did you know that ectodermal dysplasia can affect breast development in both females and males? Learn how and why it’s related to sweat glands in this new library article. Find out about the various ways breasts can be affected, potential treatment options and how to discuss the issue if your child is affected.
Our Hero, Every Day
Finally getting a diagnosis of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia for their 13-month-old daughter was a relief for Sam and Neil Gansebom. But, they still had all of these emotions. Where would they turn? What should they do? Read about how they are coping and what they are doing.