Down syndrome-associated periodontitis: a critical review of the literature

Abstract

Down syndrome, or trisomy 21 (T21), was first described by John Langdon Down in 1866. Down identified the phenotypic expression of patients with circulation and coordination problems as having Down syndrome. More than a century later, Jerome Lejeune hypothesized that nondysjunction during meiosis could lead to trisomy of the 21st chromosome. The incidence of T21 is one in 800 to 1,000 live births in the United States. Generally, these patients now live to age 50 and some to age 60. As life expectancy increases, medical and social costs garner greater attention. Also, societal changes have allowed for better quality of life. Dental practitioners are challenged by the high incidence of early onset aggressive periodontal disease in T21; these patients have higher levels of periodontal pathogens and periodontitis-associated interproximal bone loss. The complex anatomy, physiology, immunology, and microbiology underscore the need for further investigation in specific areas related to dental treatment of these patients. This article is a critical review of the periodontal research concerning T21. Creating awareness enables dental professionals who have the power and knowledge to appropriately address the needs of those affected by T21.