Abstract
Background: Down syndrome (DS) is a genetic disorder in which there is an increased risk of developing clinical comorbidities that require regular attention: health problems, alterations in maxillomandibular development, chewing and swallowing problems, as well as dietary habits that may influence diet and nutritional status. This study will analyze the frequency of occurrence of these factors with increasing age in this population. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 18 participants aged 30–45 years. The condition of orofacial structures, chewing and swallowing function and oral and eating habits were assessed to observe the frequency of occurrence of these problems with increasing age. Results: A high frequency of digestive problems was observed. There was also a presence of problems in the introduction of new tastes and consistencies. In addition, unilateral chewing was reported in 100% of the participants, severe anatomical dysfunction of the mandible/maxilla and high hypotonicity reflected in tongue movements. Conclusions: it is necessary to educate, through specific intervention protocols, the younger generations with DS, as well as their environment, as harmful habits are developed in childhood and consolidated throughout life.
Highlights
Academic Editor: Iole VozzaDown syndrome (DS), or trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the partial or complete presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 [1]
The main results of the present study demonstrated the high frequency of digestive problems in adults with DS
A condition of severe anatomical dysfunction was observed in the mandibular–maxillary relationship, with poor oral muscular mobility influenced by a high presence of hypotonicity reflected in poor swallowing efficiency with solids
Summary
Academic Editor: Iole VozzaDown syndrome (DS), or trisomy 21, is a genetic disorder caused by the partial or complete presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 [1]. There are specific anatomical characteristics of DS that complicate correct oral function at the maxillofacial level [9] In this regard, the presence of reduced mandibular development stands out, which favors lingual protrusion, making lip occlusion difficult and often causes dental and swallowing problems [10]. The presence of an ogival palate and an altered and late dentition stand out [10], leading to frequent dental agenesis [11] or the presence of supernumerary teeth that promote predominantly type III malocclusions [12] All of these orofacial alterations cause swallowing difficulties [13], which can lead to serious health problems [14]. The condition of orofacial structures, chewing and swallowing function and oral and eating habits were assessed to observe the frequency of occurrence of these problems with increasing age. Conclusions: it is necessary to educate, through specific intervention protocols, the younger generations with DS, as well as their environment, as harmful habits are developed in childhood and consolidated throughout life
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