Oral Issues: 3 Dental Concerns for Kids with Down Syndrome

Many parents and guardians struggle to get their kids to care for their teeth and gums. For example, it can be hard to get them to brush and floss their teeth every morning and night until they’re old enough to understand the importance of proper preventive care.

But if your child has Down syndrome, they may be at an increased risk of developing certain problems. Continue reading to learn about 3 issues that people with this condition are more likely to experience, so you can help your kid avoid them!

Concern #1: Delayed Tooth Eruption

Did you know that children who have Down syndrome often grow their teeth later than those who don’t? Usually, babies start growing their first teeth in the front of their mouths when they’re between 6 and 12 months old. But if your little one has an extra copy of chromosome 21, they could experience slower overall growth and development, including their teeth. As a result, they might not start showing signs of teething until closer to 12 to 14 months, though some might not erupt their first tooth until they’re 24 months, or 2 years old.

You may not be able to influence when their teeth will arrive, but you can start taking your child to visit their pediatric dentist regularly to monitor and guide their dental development as soon as one does.

Concern #2: Bite Misalignments

People with this condition also often have smaller teeth and upper jaws, which can lead to spacing issues with their smiles. For instance, if their pearly whites are shorter or have more space in between them, they’re more prone to trapping leftover food and debris that attract bacteria, increasing the risk of cavities or injuries.

Furthermore, because there’s often less room in their top arches for all their teeth, overcrowding is more common. They might even experience impacted teeth because there’s not always enough room in their mouths for all their pearly whites to clear their gumline successfully.

Orthodontic services can address these concerns, but many patients recommend waiting until your child is older and better equipped to adapt to the changes that accompany these treatments.

Concern #3: Increased Risk of Gum Disease

Down syndrome can also significantly impair your child’s immune system, which hinders their body’s ability to deliver essential nutrients and infection-fighting cells to their teeth and gums. Unfortunately, that means they’re more prone to developing gum disease.

You can help your child avoid periodontal problems by brushing and flossing their teeth both morning and night to regularly remove germs and plaque buildup. If you notice that their connective tissues bleed or ooze, they may already be inflamed, warranting a visit to their pediatric dentist.  

If you have specific questions about your kid’s dental condition or how to help prevent potential issues, their provider can give you more detailed information during your next appointment.

Meet the Author

Dr. Allen Pearson has over 20 years of experience helping children build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. He earned his dental degree from the Creighton University School of Dentistry before achieving his Pediatric Dental Specialty Certificate at the University of Rochester Medical Center and Eastman Dental College. Today, he offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet your child’s unique needs under one roof. You are welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (972) 429-7070.