ORAL HEALTH IN CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME: INTERVENTION PROTOCOL

Introduction: In scientific literature, we can find many studies proving that patients with Down Syndrome have a high predisposition to suffer oral problems as a result of its pathology. It is essential to set up appropriate preventive measures at an early age. To do so, parents and educators must be implicated, properly advised by the pediatric dentist. We propose an educational method based on conducting conferences for parents and educators, as well as the distribution of leaflets and posters that will be implemented in special education schools to reinforce their knowledge acquired about oral health prevention. Objective: To develop a preventive protocol for child patients with Down syndrome aimed at parents and educators, in order to achieve and maintain adequate levels of oral health. Materials and Methods: Our proposal involves the composition of leaflets with different sections, written in layman's terms to transmit knowledge to parents and educators on how to educate and introduce their children to oral care. Also designing posters and informative conferences that are visually stimulating and specifically directed at young Down Syndrome patients. This will allow us to disseminate knowledge which is considered essential to gain at an early age. This type of learning fasters more communication and interaction with parents and educators, being an essential key in the exchange of knowledge with us, pediatric dentists. Results and Discussion: The literature review allowed us to make a detailed study of the entity. The agreement made between the Vicepresidency of Institutional and International Relations of the UCM - Down Syndrome Foundation of Madrid, has enabled us to develop this project to educate and improve oral health of these patients with the collaboration of parents and teachers in partner institutions. Conclusions: Paramount for maintaining a healthy mouth in patients with Down syndrome is prevention and education, through a proper oral hygiene and a healthy diet.