Every child needs high-quality oral healthcare to ensure their smile develops correctly. While cavities may be the primary problem most dentists look for in young patients, those with Down Syndrome can face even greater dental challenges. Keep reading to find out what kinds of problems are most commonly associated with this genetic disorder and how you can help your child achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Dental Difficulties: What Are Children with Down Syndrome Likely to Experience?
Pediatric dentists who treat children with Down Syndrome (DS) remark that these patients often struggle with the following dental issues:
- Delayed Tooth Eruption: A child’s first baby tooth typically erupts between 6 and 12 months of age; however, those with Down Syndrome may not see their first teeth until 12-24 months. This kind of delay continues as they grow older with many children not receiving some of their permanent teeth and molars until they are between 8 and 9 years of age.
- Gum Disease: Children with Down Syndrome have a weakened immune system, which makes it hard to fight off infection. As a result, the risk of gum disease drastically increases.
- Cavities: Much in the same way that children without Down Syndrome are prone to cavities, those with DS are just as likely because of their diets and infrequent oral hygiene habits.
Other problems include missing teeth, an enlarged tongue, bite problems, impacted teeth, a small upper jaw, and gaps between teeth.
How You Can Help Your Child Embrace Better Oral Health
Having a child with Down Syndrome may pose many unique challenges, but their oral health is one thing you can help them positively embrace. Although it may take time to make some of these changes, persistence and patience will guide them toward establishing good dental hygiene habits.
For example, you can:
- Create a routine that includes brushing teeth twice a day and flossing. Make sure they are using a toothbrush they are comfortable with as well as fluoride toothpaste to combat dental decay. If your child is unable to spit, only use a smear of toothpaste. Otherwise, you can use a pea-sized amount.
- Find a dentist who provides special needs dentistry so that your child can receive the necessary oral healthcare they deserve.
- Make sure they visit the dentist’s office every six months unless otherwise noted.
- Limit how much sugar and starch they consume, as this can increase their risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Make sure they drink plenty of water as opposed to sugary beverages or those that are highly acidic.
Children with Down Syndrome can experience life with a healthier, happier smile as long as they receive the proper attention at home and in the dentist’s office. By working together with your child’s pediatric dentist, you can be sure their oral health remains in the best possible shape, no matter what other challenges may arise.
About the Author
Dr. Marie Tremblay’s 20+ years of experience in pediatric dentistry makes her a family favorite at Treehouse Pediatric Dentistry. Having worked at Tufts University’s Special Needs Program, she is well-versed in treating patients with intellectual and physical disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome. If you are unsure how to care for your child’s smile because of the challenges that come with this genetic disorder, visit our website or call (413) 779-3136.