Dental and oro-facial features of Foetal Anticonvulsant Syndrome

Emerging evidence suggests dental/oro-facial anomalies are features of Foetal Anticonvulsant Syndrome (FACS) and have an impact on quality of life. Currently there is limited research on these, and no Aotearoa New Zealand data on FACS overall. This study aimed to collect national data on the dental and oro-facial features of FACS.

A participatory model was utilised; a questionnaire was developed and distributed to FACS-affected families via the Foetal Anticonvulsant Syndrome New Zealand (FACS NZ) organisation. Open-ended questions were asked about: socio-demographics, anticonvulsant drug regime at the time of pregnancy, characteristic features of the affected child, including oro-facial function, dental/oro-facial anomalies, and dental history.

Valproate was the most prescribed anticonvulsant during pregnancy. Oro-facial functional abnormalities in speech, swallowing, and eating were identified in 70.4% of the FACS population. Dental anomalies were reported by 81%, the most common being dental crowding, followed by tooth discolouration and microdontia.

Dental and oro-facial anomalies were reported commonly in the Aotearoa New Zealand FACS population, laying foundation for further research. Recognition of these features assists in FACS diagnosis, early referral, and improved management of FACS patients. The need for FACS education for women of reproductive age requiring anticonvulsant therapy, in Aotearoa New Zealand, was identified.