Oral findings in rett syndrome: An update and review of the literature

Abstract

Rett syndrome is a progressive pediatric neurodevelopmental disorder, predominantly affecting females, characterized by a seemingly normal prenatal and perinatal period, followed by neurodevelopmental stagnation, and then rapid regression. The purpose of this study was to provide an update of the literature on the oral aspects of Rett syndrome and their possible treatment in patients suffering from this pathology. After an electronic and manual search in MEDLINE (PubMed) and the Cochrane Library, 12 articles were found, for a total of 142 patients affected by Rett syndrome. A high prevalence of bruxism, anterior open bite, ogival palate, sucking habits, and difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene was noted. There were also oral findings related to the pharmacological treatment, which included xerostomia, glossitis, erythema multiforme, gingival hyperplasia, dysphagia, and lingual paralysis. It is important for the dentist to know what problems related to the oral cavity can be encountered in a patient diagnosed with Rett syndrome and what preventive measures can be applied.