The importance of the dentist in the multidisciplinary team of a patient with moebius syndrome

Abstract

Moebius Syndrome is a congenital anomaly identified from the total or partial paralysis of the abducens and facial nerves, with the etiology still controversial. Clinically, there is a lack of facial expression, tongue hypoplasia, micrognathia, short lip and malocclusion. The objective of the present study is to elucidate the importance of knowledge of the clinical characteristics of this syndrome by the dental surgeon, highlighting the relevance of including this professional as part of the multidisciplinary team responsible for the treatment of those affected. This is a literature review study. For this, an exploration of the VHL, LILACS and PubMed database was carried out, using the descriptors “moebius syndrome”, “congenital anomalies”, “dental treatment”, in addition to their corresponding ones in English. It was observed that as the syndrome has several implications for general and oral health, the early intervention of a dentist is of paramount importance for the quality of life of the patient. Thus, the treatment must be carried out by a multidisciplinary team with periodic follow-up. It is considered that dentistry has contributed in an incisive way in the treatment of patients with Moebius Syndrome, considering that they have numerous alterations in the craniofacial region that also hinder the social interaction of these individuals in society. It is concluded that the dental surgeon is indispensable in the management and control of the signs and symptoms resulting from this pathology. In addition, as it is a rare syndrome, it is important to publish more studies on the subject, aiming to clarify the clinical picture of MS and its aspects.