Masticatory function in children with Down syndrome

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Oral Health
• Developmental Disabilities

Background:

• Masticatory function is crucial for nutrient intake and overall health.
• Children with Down syndrome (DS) often present with oral motor challenges that may impact chewing.
• Limited research exists on the specific masticatory capabilities of children with DS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the masticatory performance and maximum occlusal force in children aged 8-10 years with and without Down syndrome.
• To identify potential correlations between Down syndrome and reduced chewing efficiency.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 8 children with DS and a reference group of 32 children without DS.
• Masticatory performance assessed using artificial test food (Optosil Comfort®) to determine medium particle size after 20 cycles and at swallowing threshold.
• Maximum occlusal force measured on first permanent molars using a portable transducer.
• Statistical analysis included Mann-Whitney tests and regression analysis.

Main Results:

• Children with DS showed significantly larger medium particle size (44% after 20 cycles, 75% at swallowing threshold) indicating poorer masticatory performance (p<.05).
• Median maximum occlusal force was substantially lower in children with DS (254 kN) compared to controls (499 kN) (p<.001), with DS explaining 48% of the variance.
• Significant differences in chewing cycle and sequence durations were observed, with large effect sizes.

Conclusions:

• Children with Down syndrome possess approximately 50% of the masticatory performance and maximum occlusal force of their non-DS peers.
• These deficits in chewing function may contribute to the feeding problems frequently reported in children with DS.
• Further research is warranted to explore interventions for improving masticatory function in this population.