Question:
My daughter 24 years old. Her lower front teeth are becoming loose & the gums are very red. We have her teeth cleaned 4X a year. I floss her teeth everyday. I brush her teeth 2x a day. How can I save these lower front teeth. We go to a perio doctor for two cleanings & then our regular dentist for the other two cleanings. I feel like we are just waiting for them to fall out.
Answer:
Unfortunately, dental problems are more common in people with Down syndrome. These may include:
- Gum disease
- Loose teeth
- Loss of teeth
- Malocclusions (imperfect positioning of teeth)
- Malformed teeth
- Missing teeth
- Crowding
- Difficulty with chewing
- Inefficient natural cleansing
Interestingly, cavities are less common in people with Down syndrome.
Gum disease, including chronic gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), erosion of bone, loose teeth, and losing teeth are challenges experienced by many of the individuals with Down syndrome for whom we provide care.
As you describe, good daily care and more frequent visits to the dentist and/or periodontist can be helpful. However, as you mentioned, those don’t always solve the problem.
Some dentists have prescribed toothpastes, such as PreviDent, to improve dental hygiene. Chlorhexidine, an antimicrobial agent is also sometimes prescribed. Other dentists have recommended products that increase saliva, such as Biotene that comes in a variety of forms (mouthwash, gum, spray, etc.). Use of an electric toothbrush has helped some as has review of the diet and limiting food, drink, gum, and medications that contain sugar.
If an individual does lose their teeth, options may include:
- Living without the teeth (which has implications for cosmetics and self-esteem as well as chewing and digestion).
- Dentures
- Dental implants (more information on dental implants in people with Down syndrome is available here)
Additional information about dental care guidance in people with Down syndrome is available at this link and this link.
Additional information on oral health considerations is available in this article.