How to Provide Dental Care for a Child with Down Syndrome

You may not always know how to treat a certain issue, or they may need to go to the dentist but are unsure of where to get the best care.

Dental care is important for everyone, no matter how old or young. However, for people with Down Syndrome (DS), their dental care requires special attention as they can have several unique dental issues.

If your child or loved one has Down Syndrome, you may feel overwhelmed when dealing with their unique challenges. You may not always know how to treat a certain issue, or they may need to go to the dentist but are unsure of where to get the best care.

At The Dental Anesthesia Center in St. Louis, we have been working with special needs patients, including those with Down Syndrome, for over 30 years.

What Are Their Special Dental Needs?

There are several unique challenges for patients with DS. Part of their individual situation may have to do with the way their teeth grow; another may have to do with their ability to cooperate, while others face additional complicating health issues. Whatever your child’s special circumstances, we are here to help with solutions.

Some of the most common oral health factors to consider include the delayed eruption of baby or adult teeth, crossbites or open bites, bruxism, crowded or missing teeth, and a higher risk of developing cavities and gum disease.

How to Care for Their Special Needs

All children need a regular dental care routine. This includes brushing teeth twice a day, staying away from sugary drinks and snacks, and having regular dental checkups. For children with down syndrome, there are some additional steps you need to take to ensure that your child’s teeth and gums are healthy. Some of these steps include:

• Inspect your child’s teeth often. Lift their lips away from their teeth for a better view. This will help you address any issues more quickly.
• Encourage your child to rinse with water after taking medications that can cause dry mouth. A dry mouth makes it easier to get tooth decay.
• Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. If your child doesn’t like a toothpaste flavor or foam, try different kinds until you find one that works.
• Help them brush and floss if they can’t do it independently.
• Be careful about the use of a power toothbrush as it may be too stimulating for your child.
• Be sure to use any of the aids and suggestions provided by your child’s dentist to keep teeth and mouth clean.
• Schedule regular checkups for them and keep the dentist informed of any problems or new developments.

Making a difference in your child’s oral health may go slowly at first. However, your determination will bring positive results. By adopting these strategies, you can make a significant impact not only on their oral health but also on their quality of life.

We know how important it is to have oral health care for everyone, and we’re here to provide the best Down Syndrome dentistry in St. Louis. Give us a call at (314) 862-7844 to schedule an appointment with one of our top dentists. We look forward to meeting you!