Adaptation to dental care in a patient with Down syndrome: case report

Abstract

Introduction: Down syndrome is a congenital alteration, characterized by trisomy of chromosome 21. Patients with Down syndrome have specific oral and dental characteristics such as increased risk of periodontal disease, macroglossia and dentomaxillary anomalies. All of the above makes it essential to keep these patients in regular dental checkups to prevent complications. Case Report: Patient 5 years 11 months old, Frankl 3. Down syndrome, with history of interventricular and interatrial connection. Allergic rhinitis in treatment with Levocetirizine. Complete primary dentition, high cariogenic risk, without caries activity. Gingivitis associated to bacterial plaque. Hypomineralization in molars and teeth 5.3 and 6.3. Fusion between teeth 8.3-8.2. Possible sleep bruxism. Adaptation to dental care is achieved through techniques such as progressive desensitization, modeling, telling-showing-doing and imagery. Conclusions: In patients with Down syndrome, it is essential to achieve adaptation to care, in order to achieve a more comfortable experience and family adherence to dental treatment. It is necessary to know how to individualize the adaptive techniques for each patient according to his or her own needs. With this we will be able to prevent oral diseases such as periodontal disease, or treat it in time if necessary. This contributes to a better quality of life for our patients with Down syndrome.