Down Syndrome and Periodontitis

Although most of these rare genetic syndromes unlikely for hygienist outside the hospital, people with down syndrome often are members of the dental team in General and periodontal dental offices. Down syndrome is one of the most common birth defects. As a rule, children specifications with this disease have some degree of mental retardation, and characteristic features. Many of these children also have other health problems.

While genetic changes down syndrome

1. As a rule, in the nucleus of each cell contains 46 chromosomes. In down syndrome, however, the kernel contains 47 chromosomes. In most cases of down syndrome occurs because there are three copies of the 21st chromosome. For this reason, the down syndrome is also called trisomy 21.

2. More than 350,000 people in the United States with down syndrome.

3. Because of advances in medical treatment, 80% of adults with down syndrome the age of 55 years and many of them live longer. As mortality associated with down syndrome decreases the prevalence of adults with down syndrome in our society will increase.

More and more dental services providers will interact with individuals with the disease, increasing the need for education and acceptance.

B. Physical Characteristics of Patients with Down Syndrome. Among the most common physical traits of infants with Down syndrome are

1. Flat profile with a small nose with a depressed nasal bridge

2. Upward slant to the eyes, and small skin folds at the inner corners of the eyes

3. Protruding tongue and mouth

C. medical problems and problems of development patients with down syndrome

1. Children with down syndrome have an increased risk of congenital heart defects, increased susceptibility to infections, diseases of the respiratory tract, gastrointestinal disorders, and childhood leukemia.

2. Abnormal PMN function occurs in about half of patients with down syndrome.

3. Most people with down syndrome have some degree of mental retardation, with an IQ in the light and medium-range of mental retardation. Those who receive good medical care and experience of creation of a favorable social environment can attend school, have a job, and to participate in decisions that affect them. Some live with family or friends, and some live independently from each other (Fig. 10-7). ..