4 Ways You Can Better Manage the Dental Care for a Child with Down Syndrome

Down syndrome, also referred to as trisomy 21, is a genetic condition that develops when there is an extra copy of chromosome number 21 in the body’s cells. This can induce a wide variety of physical, intellectual, and developmental impairments that can lead, among other factors, to dental disorder and other questions regarding oral health. For those with Down syndrome, most dental care may take place in a general dental clinic with relatively slight changes. There is generally little or no sensitivity to treating people with disabilities through undergraduate dental school, and general practitioners can be unwilling to approach these patients with trust. This blog will aim to outline the particular aspects associated with Down syndrome that affect this population’s dental care and treatment. Oral concerns, particularly during childhood, can be reduced. Compared to children without Down syndrome, the teeth of persons with Down syndrome, both baby teeth, and permanent teeth, can emerge out premature. On average, at 12 to 14 months, babies with Down syndrome get their first teeth, although that may be as late as 24 months of age. Around 6-12 months, babies without Down syndrome usually get their first teeth. It is uncommon since a child with Down syndrome won’t have all 20 baby teeth until he or she is 4 to 5 years of age, instead of 2-3 years of age, as is common for children without Down syndrome. Until age 8-9, the front permanent teeth and permanent 6-year-old molars may not erupt. For children with Down syndrome, it is often normal for teeth to erupt in a different sequence than in children without Down syndrome. Here are four ways for a child with Down syndrome to handle dental treatment better.

Start early with dental appointments.

Patients with Down syndrome can have physical difficulties that could lead to halted tooth eruption, oddly shaped teeth, or weaker jaws that contribute to impaired growth of bites and increased risk of tooth loss and periodontal (gum) disease. You should begin daily visits to the dentist no later than the first birthday of the infant in order to keep track of any emerging problems.

Be considerate of dental anxiety.

Most kids with Down syndrome have great concern about the psychological aspects of their treatment. We aim to provide all patients, especially those with special needs, with a secure, caring atmosphere. To relieve anxiety, a variety of calming strategies as well as sedation options can help.

Organize dental and medical treatment.

Dental care can be affected by medical issues. Be certain, then, to keep us updated about the health conditions of your boy. For instance, among people with Down syndrome, heart problems are more frequent, and dental patients with heart problems may need to be treated with antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection before such dental procedures.

Make daily hygiene easier.

For everyone’s dental health, regular brushing and flossing are necessary, but they can be hard for anyone with Down syndrome. You can have to support or even handle certain duties for your child in certain situations. By picking toothbrushes that complement the level of physical skill of your child or using special flossing machines, you can make oral hygiene simpler.

Conclusion-

Those with Down syndrome have physical difficulties that fall along a broad spectrum, with some people having more help than others. It will help keep your child’s teeth and gums safe for the long run by tailoring their dental treatment to their individual needs and skills. Schedule an appointment with Global Dentals if you would like more information on dental services for kids with disabilities. For your dental hygiene, we have effective and streamlined solutions.