Oral Manifestations of Down Syndrome

Abstract

A congenital disorder arising from a chromosome defect, causing intellectual impairment and physical abnormalities including short stature and a broad facial profile. It arises from a defect involving chromosome 21, usually an extra copy
(trisomy-21). Down syndrome is a lifelong condition. But with care and support, children who have Down syndrome can
grow up to have healthy, happy, productive lives. Down syndrome is caused by a problem with a baby's chromosomes.
Normally, a person has 46 chromosomes. But most people with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes. In rare cases,
other chromosome problems cause Down syndrome. Having extra or abnormal chromosomes changes the way the brain
and body develop. Dental Manifestations, Oral and Dental Considerations, Management: delayed eruption of both primary and permanent dentitions, 35-55% of microdontia, clinical crowns are short, conical, small, roots complete. Enamel
hypocalcificiation and hypoplasia are common DS patients 50% more likely to have congenitally missing teeth, taurodonts are frequent finding. 1/3 more caries resistant than their non-DS siblings. Gingivitis develops earlier and more rapidly and extensively in persons with DS, perhaps because of an abnormality in host defenses. Patients with DS have altered microbiological composition of subgingival plaque, including increased Antinomies and Hemophilic strains. There
are observed V-shaped palate, incomplete development of the midface complex, soft palate insufficiency. Hypotonic O.
Ores, Masseter, Zygomatic, Temporalis Muscles. Absent incisors make articulation difficult. High incidence of laryngeal
-tracheal stenosis, also upper airway obstruction and sleep apnea are common. Scalloped, fissured tongue with bifid uvula, cleft lip/palate, enlarged tonsils/adenoids. Oral and Dental Considerations in Down syndrome. Higher incidence of
congenitally missing primary and permanent teeth in as many as 50% of patients. Reduced salivary flow. Tongue enlargement is relative (as a result of underdeveloped maxilla, tongue appears to be enlarged). Crowding is frequent, especially in maxilla, due to underdevelopment. Higher incidence of bruxism, particularly in ages 0-6 years. Bruxism tends to
decrease after age six. Higher incidence (96%) of periodontal disease (misaligned teeth contribute to this secondarily).
Current research suggest that reduced neutrophil and monocyte chemotaxis, reduced phagocytosis, and a defect in T-cell
proliferation and maturity may be reasons for the increase in periodontal disease seen in these patients. An important
note about pre-medication: patients with Down syndrome are more likely to require SBE prophylaxis prior to dental procedures because of their increased incidence of congenital heart defects. Consultation with the patient's physician may be
necessary. Dental Management: an aggressive preventive dental program is recommended for patients with Down syndrome. The program should include: three to four month recalls: Consistent preventive care can help reduce periodontal
disease, dietary counseling and encouragement of good oral hygiene: Practical advice to minimize consumption of cariogenic foods and the effects of such foods on tooth structure. Topical fluoride application: For caries prevention and/or
reduction of dentinal.