Summary: Impaired Orofacial Function

Impaired orofacial function is often present in infants with DS and this may become more pronounced by the end of the first year (Limbrock, Castillo-Morales, Hoyer, Stover, & Onufer, 1993). The primary indicators of this problem include hypotonicity of the perioral, lips, and masticatory muscles and a protruding tongue. This is thought to occur because of the low muscle tone and small mouth in children with DS, as well as an abnormally large tongue “macroglossia” in some cases.
The palatal plate was originally designed by Castillo-Morales to improve orofacial function, facial appearance, and prevent secondary conditions. Castillo-Morales’ palatal plate is an acrylic plate made for an infant’s toothless palate. The hollow cylinder at the dorsal