Case Report: Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome: Dental manifestations and management

Abstract

Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome (RSTS) is an uncommon genetic disorder characterised by a typical facies, small stature, broad angulated thumbs and intellectual impairment. Dental changes are a minor, yet signicant component of the condition. Craniofacial growth retardation in RSTS is frequently complicated by unerupted teeth, while dental caries is related to the inherent intellectual decit. Dental problems necessitate interdisciplinary management in terms of oral surgery, conservative dentistry, periodontics and orthodontics. When aected individuals are unco-operative, certain dental procedures may warrant general anaesthesia. In these instances, dental and medical sta will combine their expertise to enhance the well-being of the patient. In addition, specic dental changes may alert the medical practitioner to the possible diagnosis of RSTS. In this article we document the oro-dental manifestations and review the oro-dental approach in the management of three patients with RSTS. Our experience in South Africa may be relevant to other countries at a similar stage of development.