Introduction: Down Syndrome (DS)
is an autosomal genetic condition of
the chromosomal pair 21 that shows
craniofacial characteristics, cognitive
defi cit, and generalized muscular hypotonia.
These characteristics have implications
for eating, swallowing, chewing, posture,
breathing, and sleep. Early orthodontic
intervention can improve orofacial functions
by strengthening and stimulating facial
muscles. The objective of the study was
to make a literature review on the general
and oral aspects of patients with Down’s
Syndrome, showing possible treatments for
their orofacial rehabilitation, highlighting the
importance of early orthodontic treatment
for these individuals, as well as the benefi ts
of these interventions in the quality of life.
Data source: A survey of articles published
between years 2011 to 2017 was carried
out by means of search strategy based on
terms in Portuguese: “Síndrome de Down”;
“Ortodontia”; “Má Oclusão”,” Qualidade de
vida” and in English: “Down Syndrome”,
“Orthodontics”; “Malocclusion”, “Quality
of Life”. Conclusion: The orthodontic
intervention performed with several devices
in a preventive way will help children with DS
in a better bio-psycho-social development,
with a positive infl uence on the quality of life
of these individuals.
