How does Williams syndrome affect dental management?
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How does Williams syndrome affect dental management?
Assessment: Cardiology and anesthesia assessment before sedation or GA; this is a high-risk anesthesia patient even if the child looks well
Setting: Select sedation/GA and the venue after cardiovascular risk assessment.
Higher or uncertain risk: Significant outflow obstruction, coronary involvement, or uncertain risk calls for an experienced pediatric/cardiac anesthesia team with appropriate hospital support.
Sound sensitivity: Reduce noise (hyperacusis: suction and handpieces), prepare the child for sounds
Medical review: review the child’s calcium, renal, blood-pressure, and endocrine history; obtain additional tests when the medical/anesthesia team identifies a clinical indication.
Communication and consent: assess understanding directly, use concrete explanations, and involve the child in assent.
Consent and capacity: Obtain consent from the appropriate decision-maker; sociability or the syndrome label does not establish capacity.