Oral characteristics and medical considerations in the dental treatment of individuals with Williams syndrome

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate oral characteristics and comorbidities that may affect dental treatment of individuals with Williams syndrome (WS). Methods and results: Fifty-two subjects diagnosed with WS were included in this observational study. Demographic data and medical history were compiled. Facial aspects, tooth abnormalities and oral characteristics were obtained through clinical and radiographic evaluation by a researcher/dentist. Among 52 subjects, 25 were also evaluated for temporomandibular and occlusal disorders, caries and periodontal disease. From the 52 subjects, 23 (44.2%) were female and the average age was of 20 years old (range from 4 to 35 years old). Cognitive impairment and congenital heart disease were the most common medical disorders found in all 52 (100%) and in 41 (78.8%) subjects, respectively. Among the 52 subjects, 51 (98%) presented at least one dental developmental abnormality, with generalized diastemas (72.5%) and hypodontia (50.9%) being the most frequent ones. Angle class III malocclusion was observed in 52% (13/25) of the subjects. Conclusions: The dentist should be aware of the medical conditions of individuals with WS and thus offer an adequate dental treatment. The high prevalence of tooth abnormalities and occlusal disorders requires an early dental treatment planning.