Intellectual impairment

Question 1

what are the two areas of function intellectual impairments can impact

Answer 1

intellectual functioning - learning, problem solving, judgement
adaptive functioning - communication, independent living

Question 2

downs syndrome
- what is it
- biggest risk factor
- medical features
- dental implications

Answer 2

neurodevelopmental disorder affecting chromosome 21
greatest risk factor = advanced maternal age
medical - epilepsy, congenital heart defects, intellectual impairment, alzheimers
dental - increased periodontal disease

Question 3

Prader Willi syndrome
(harvey price)

Answer 3

learning difficulties and a constant desire to eat
also behavioural problems

Question 4

why might dental treatment prove challenging for patients on the autistic spectrum

Answer 4

many autistic patients have atypical sensory processing
many are hypersensitive to bright lights, noise and touch
toothbrushing may also have multiple sensory triggers for these individuals

Question 5

cerebral palsy

Answer 5

neurological condition affecting movement and co-ordination
may not be a learning difficulty present

Question 6

dental risk factors for learning disability patients

Answer 6

frequent sugar intake
medication may cause xerostomia
difficulty accessing services
reduced dexterity
sensory sensitivity

Question 7

some intellectual impairments may see self injurious behaviours e.g tourettes, autism via biting
what are some treatment options for this?

Answer 7

symptomatic relief , oral appliances
orthagnathic surgery to create and open bite and prevent self injuries from biting

Question 8

what oral abnormalities / habits may see drooling become a problem for a patient

Answer 8

abnormal swallowing
dysphagia
tongue thrusting
poor mouth closure