Early oral functional therapy in Down syndrome: Need for evidence

Abstract

Early oral functional therapy in toddlers with Down Syndrome was first described by Castillo Morales in the 1970s. Management of facial manifestations remains essential to gain social integration of these children. Oral functional therapy by palatal plates is a complement to the early multidisciplinary management by speech therapists and physiotherapists. Different recent reviews suggested that palatal plates seem to be efficient on oral motor function, but due to low quality of the evidence, they have highlighted the real need for evidence of this therapy. The aim of this short commentary is to address key points of methods and suggest leads for further in-depths studies.