{"id":1447,"date":"2024-09-13T16:24:11","date_gmt":"2024-09-13T16:24:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wyliechildrensdentistry.com\/blog\/?p=1447"},"modified":"2024-09-13T16:24:12","modified_gmt":"2024-09-13T16:24:12","slug":"dental-challenges-for-children-with-down-syndrome","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wyliechildrensdentistry.com\/blog\/2024\/09\/13\/dental-challenges-for-children-with-down-syndrome\/","title":{"rendered":"Common Dental Challenges for Children with Down Syndrome"},"content":{"rendered":"
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If you have a child with Down Syndrome, you likely already know that they often face unique challenges with their oral health. Children with special needs<\/a> may struggle with sensory issues that can make hygiene a challenge, and unique physical characteristics may make them more susceptible to certain oral health conditions. Here are some dental issues you should be aware of and how to keep your child\u2019s smile healthy and bright!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Bruxism<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Bruxism (teeth grinding) is very common amongst patients with Down Syndrome, because they often have features such as smaller jaw bones that make this condition more likely. Other attributes they may possess are an open bite and protruding tongue, as well as malocclusion, which can contribute to bruxism. If you do notice your child grinding their teeth, speak to your dentist about treating this with the help of a bite guard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Delayed Tooth Eruption<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children with Down Syndrome may experience delayed tooth eruption of both their baby and adult teeth. Generally, most babies with Down Syndrome will get their first teeth between 12 and 14 months, however, they can appear as late as 24 months. Furthermore, adult teeth may not start appearing until they are eight or nine years old, and they may appear in a different order than children without Down Syndrome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Small or Missing Teeth<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children with Down Syndrome may have smaller than average teeth or be missing teeth. Their teeth may also have shorter roots than those who do not have Down Syndrome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Enlarged Tongues<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Children with Down Syndrome often have large tongues or an average sized tongue and smaller upper jaw that makes their tongue too big to fit properly in their mouth. Their tongues may also have grooves and fissures on them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Oral Health Struggles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you find yourself struggling to care for your child\u2019s teeth, don\u2019t give up hope. There are many things you can do to help encourage better habits, such as:<\/p>\n\n\n\n