Dental care for people with Down Syndrome

Authors

  • Maria Eduarda Lima Correia dos Santos Universidade Veiga de Almeida
  • Leila Cristina dos Santos Mourão Universidade Veiga de Almeida

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61565/revista-aquila.i35.1065

Keywords:

Down Syndrome, Dental care, Periodontal disease, Dental caries, Access to health services

Abstract

Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic condition resulting from trisomy of chromosome 21, representing the most common chromosomal alteration in humans. Individuals with DS present specific phenotypic characteristics and associated systemic conditions that directly affect their overall and oral health. In dentistry, common findings include delayed tooth eruption, hypodontia, microdontia, increased susceptibility to periodontal disease, variable risk of dental caries, and a high prevalence of malocclusions. Furthermore, behavioral challenges and barriers to accessing oral healthcare services hinder adequate care for this population. This study aims to analyze, through a literature review, the main aspects related to dental care for people with Down Syndrome, addressing oral characteristics, preventive strategies, clinical management, and barriers to treatment access. Based on the analysis of the literature, the importance of a multidisciplinary, humanized, and individualized approach is emphasized to promote oral health and improve the quality of life of these patients.

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References

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Published

2026-10-22

How to Cite

LIMA CORREIA DOS SANTOS, Maria Eduarda; DOS SANTOS MOURÃO, Leila Cristina. Dental care for people with Down Syndrome. Aquila, [S. l.], n. 35, p. e35006, 2026. DOI: 10.61565/revista-aquila.i35.1065. Disponível em: https://ojs.uva.br/index.php/revista-aquila/article/view/1065. Acesso em: 23 oct. 2026.

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