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Published on: March 22, 2016
Down's syndrome and Alzheimer's disease
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Ont.
Journal (Canadian Dental Association)
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) aged 40+ show Alzheimer's disease (AD) brain changes. Dental care for aging DS adults must prioritize prevention before dementia onset to maintain oral health.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gerontology
- Dentistry
Background:
- Aging population with Down syndrome (DS) is increasing due to medical advancements.
- Individuals with DS aged 40+ exhibit neuropathological changes similar to Alzheimer's disease (AD).
- Cognitive decline and reduced daily task performance are common in aging adults with DS, mirroring AD progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the dental care challenges in aging adults with Down syndrome.
- To emphasize the need for proactive dental treatment planning for individuals with DS.
- To underscore the importance of preventive dental strategies before and during cognitive decline.
Main Methods:
- Observational analysis of neuropathological and cognitive changes in aging DS individuals.
- Review of clinical implications for dental care planning in DS patients.
- Assessment of oral hygiene capabilities and cooperation levels in individuals with cognitive impairment.
Main Results:
- Neuropathological changes consistent with AD are prevalent in DS individuals reaching 40 years.
- Cognitive decline impacts the ability to perform daily tasks and cooperate with dental professionals.
- Advanced stages of AD in DS may necessitate tooth extraction due to severe oral hygiene deficits.
Conclusions:
- Dental clinicians must adapt treatment plans for aging DS adults, focusing on preventive care.
- Preventive dental programs should be established before dementia onset and maintained throughout cognitive decline.
- Maintaining oral health in aging individuals with DS requires a collaborative approach between clinicians and caregivers.
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