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This research explores the link between functional independence and oral health in individuals with Down syndrome.

May 6, 2026Open Access

Functional Independence Related to Oral Hygiene and Periodontal Status in Patients With Down Syndrome

Key Points

This research explores the link between functional independence and oral health in individuals with Down syndrome.
Cross-sectional observational study with 49 patients with Down syndrome.
Data collected included sociodemographic information, oral hygiene habits, and functional independence.
Periodontal health assessed using probing depth, clinical attachment level, gingival bleeding index, and visible plaque index.
Statistical analysis performed with a structural equation model.
Higher functional independence observed in self-care skills for activities like eating (91.8%) and using the bathroom (91.8%).
Increased frequency of daily brushing linked to oral hygiene guidance (SRC = 0.280, p = 0.036).
Older individuals showed greater periodontal impairment (p < 0.001).
Greater functional independence corresponds to less periodontal compromise.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between functional independence, oral hygiene habits and periodontal status in patients with Down syndrome (DS). METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 49 patients with Down Syndrome. Sociodemographic data, oral hygiene habits and functional independence were collected. The periodontal assessment included: probing depth (PPD), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL), Gingival Bleeding Index (GBI) and Visible Plaque Index (VPI). A structural equation model was used in the statistical analysis. RESULTS: Regarding functional independence, higher frequencies of self-care skills were observed for eating (91.8%), using the bathroom (91.8%) and dressing (85.7%) and using the phone alone (53.1%). The experience of oral hygiene guidance contributed to an increase in the daily frequency of brushing (SRC = 0.280, SE = 0.134, p = 0.036). It was noted that the older the individual, the greater the impairment of the periodontal condition (p < 0.001). It was observed that greater functional independence was associated with less periodontal compromise. CONCLUSION: A greater functional independence is related to a better periodontal status. These study findings indicate that the development of self-care skills seems to be a positive strategy for the oral health of DS patients.

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