Evaluation of periodontal condition in individuals with down syndrome: a case-control study

Abstract

Ogival palate, macroglossia, anodontia, cleft tongue, delayed tooth eruption, low prevalence of caries and high prevalence of periodontal disease are the main oral manifestations of Down syndrome. The aim of the present observational study was to evaluate the periodontal condition in individuals with Down syndrome. The study included 30 individuals who were selected according to the age group to be studied, between 17 and 25 years old, in a local institution for the care of Down syndrome (DG) patients and 30 individuals who made up the control group and who did not have Down syndrome (CG), periodontal parameters were observed in both groups that were adjusted for habits. The results showed for the Plaque Index 41.2% of the individuals in the DS group while in the CG group in 45.5% without statistical difference. For the Gingival Index, it was observed that 39.7% in the DS group and in the CG group 44.2% without statistical difference between the groups (p <0.05). Family and institutional participation collaborates in the daily control of dental biofilm. In the present study, individuals in the DG group presented periodontal clinical parameters compatible with periodontal health and when compared to healthy individuals, they did not present clinical differences.