Overview
Dental anomalies are common in people with Down syndrome. Differences in development and structure of teeth with other head and neck features of the syndrome lead to differences in oral and dental health. Children and young people may not experience as much dental decay as their non-affected peers, but are more prone to gum disease. Treatment may be particularly challenging because of associated developmental, behavioural or medical issues. Preventative dental health care is therefore particularly important.
Last Update: January 2021
Dr Liz Marder, Consultant Paediatrician , Community and Neurodisability.
Presentations at DSMIG Meetings
Materials from meetings are available for members only who need to log in to access them. For details on how to become a member click here.
Additional Resources
Down’s Syndrome Association Health Series leaflet
The Down syndrome patient in dental practice, part I: Pathogenesis and general and dental features.
Kieser J, Townsend G, Quick A.
NZ Dent J. 2003 Mar;99(1):5-9.
Book Chapter – Oral and Dental Health
Liz Marder and June Nunn
in
Down Syndrome – Current Perspectives
Edited by Richard Newton , Shiela Puri and Liz Marder