Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test

Severe caries and minimal periodontal disease are often observed in individuals with Down's syndrome due to several contributing factors. Individuals with this condition typically exhibit a higher prevalence of oral health issues, including dental caries, primarily because of altered immune responses, dietary habits, and potential difficulties with oral hygiene. The anatomical features commonly associated with Down's syndrome, such as hypotonia, may also hinder effective plaque removal, leading to increased susceptibility to tooth decay.

While periodontal disease can occur, it tends to be less severe than the caries presented, making this condition particularly notable for the combination of severe caries coupled with minimal periodontal disease. The contributions of these factors result in a distinct pattern of oral health challenges in individuals with Down's syndrome compared to the other conditions listed, where the presence and interaction of caries and periodontal disease may differ significantly.