The fundamental role of the dentist in the child neurodevelopment team

As healthcare professionals, dentists play a fundamental role in the comprehensive care of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Beyond oral health, our work extends to key aspects of the development and quality of life of these young patients.

Dentistry and its close relationship with neurodevelopment

Scientific evidence has shown that there is a close connection between oral health and neurodevelopment. Problems such as sleep, breathing, chewing, and oral muscle tone can have a significant impact on the neurological, cognitive, and behavioral development of children.

That is why the dentist must be a fundamental part of the transdisciplinary team that accompanies these children. Our work goes beyond the prevention and treatment of oral diseases; we must become active agents that contribute to improving the quality of life of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Oral problems in children with neurodevelopmental disorders

Children with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism, Down syndrome, or ADHD, have a higher prevalence of oral problems. These conditions can range from cavities, gingivitis, and periodontal disease, to alterations in chewing, swallowing, and muscle tone.

These problems, if not addressed in a timely and appropriate manner, can have a negative impact on nutrition, sleep, phonation, and, in general, on the quality of life of children. Therefore, the dentist must be attentive to the early detection and transdisciplinary management of these conditions.

Key aspects of dental intervention

1. Sleep and snoring: Problems such as sleep apnea or snoring may be related to alterations in the position of the tongue, palate, or jaw. The dentist can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, thus improving sleep quality and, therefore, neurological development.
2. Chewing and oral muscle tone: Adequate chewing and oral muscle tone are fundamental for the development of orofacial functions, such as swallowing and phonation. The dentist can evaluate and address problems in these aspects, improving the child's quality of life.
3. Breathing: Inadequate breathing, either due to nasal obstruction or an abnormal breathing pattern, can have repercussions on craniofacial development and cerebral oxygenation. The dentist can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of these alterations.
4. Bruxism: Teeth grinding and clenching, known as bruxism, is common in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. The dentist can intervene to prevent associated complications.

Neurological connections and development

Beyond oral problems, dentistry also has a direct impact on the neurological development of children. Some of the key connections are:

1. Impact on the hippocampus: Various investigations have shown that oral health and orofacial functions have a close relationship with the hippocampus, a key brain structure for learning and memory.
2. Influence on learning: Oral problems, such as bruxism or alterations in chewing, can affect attention and concentration capacity, which translates into learning difficulties.
3. Language development: The adequate function of the orofacial muscles is fundamental for the development of language and communication. The dentist can contribute to the improvement of these skills.

Specific neurodevelopmental disorders

Each neurodevelopmental disorder has particular characteristics and needs, so the dentist must be trained to address them specifically:

1. Autism: Children with autism often present sensory hypersensitivity, which requires adapted dental management strategies.
2. Down syndrome: These children have a higher prevalence of problems such as periodontal disease, malocclusion, and chewing alterations.
3. ADHD: The attention and concentration problems inherent in ADHD can make dental management difficult, requiring specialized approaches.
4. Sensory hypersensitivity: Some children with neurodevelopmental disorders present a hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli, which must be considered in dental care.

Dental intervention strategies

To effectively address children with neurodevelopmental disorders, the dentist must adopt an approach based on scientific evidence and multidisciplinary collaboration:

1. Evidence-based approach: Stay updated on the latest research and dental care protocols for these types of patients.
2. Transdisciplinary collaboration: Work in coordination with the team of professionals accompanying the child, such as pediatricians, neurologists, occupational therapists, among others.

Conclusion

In summary, the dentist plays a fundamental role in the comprehensive care of children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Our work goes beyond oral health, as we can contribute significantly to improving the quality of life of these young patients. Through an approach based on scientific evidence and multidisciplinary collaboration, dentists can become active agents of neurological development and the well-being of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.