Oral health condition and treatment needs of a group of Nigerian individuals with Down syndrome.

OBJECTIVE This study was carried out to determine the oral health condition and treatment needs of a group of individuals with Down syndrome in Nigeria. METHOD Participants were examined for oral hygiene status, dental caries, malocclusion, hypoplasia, missing teeth, crowding and treatment needs. Findings were compared with controls across age group, sex and educational background of parents. RESULT Participants with Down syndrome had poorer oral hygiene than controls, with no significant sex difference. Oral hygiene was similar in the lower age groups but deteriorated with age in the Down syndrome group. CONCLUSION Individuals with Down syndrome in Nigeria have poorer oral health and more treatment needs than controls. They would benefit from frequent oral health assessment.