Dental News - Many with facial paralysis are socially adjusted

Fred Michmershuizen, DTA

Thu. 2 September 2010

save

A recent study reported in The Cleft Palate–Craniofacial Journal, the publication of the American Cleft Palate–Craniofacial Association, quantitatively examined social competence, anxiety and depression associated with Moebius syndrome, a rare congenital condition causing facial paralysis. The condition can rob people of the ability to smile, frown or even raise an eyebrow.

However, contrary to previous studies, it does not appear to increase anxiety and depression or lower a person’s satisfaction with life.

Thirty-seven adults with Moebius syndrome and an equal number of subjects in a gender-matched control group participated in the study, which is described in the article Living With Moebius Syndrome: Adjustment, Social Competence, and Satisfaction With Life.

Moebius syndrome is a nonprogressive disease that occurs early in prenatal life. It is typically characterized by complete bilateral facial paralysis, but also can include limb or hand malformations and hypoglossia — weakness or malformation of the tongue. Speech difficulties, which can be mostly resolved with therapy, are also frequently part of this condition. The cause of Moebius syndrome is unknown.

“Many people with the condition live professionally and personally successful lives,” the article states.

To post a reply please login or register

Treat your paralysis-by-analysis syndrome

I speak to thousands of dentists each year and I see one common malady that probably affects the majority of them — paralysis-by-analysis syndrome. ...

Many orofacial injuries during sports are preventable

In 1998, Orlando Magic center Adonal Foyle took an elbow from Utah Jazz’s Quincy Lewis to teeth Nos. 8 and 9, causing the teeth to luxate back. In ...

Top endodontists are honored with awards

HONOLULU, Hawaii, USA: The American Association of Endodontists (AAE), which represents more than 7,500 members worldwide, recognized seven individuals with...

Digital impressions are reality with Cadent

An accurate master impression is essential to a quality indirect dental restoration. We operate in an area where as little as 30 microns can mean the ...

Many children with cleft lip and/or palate travel over an hour for care

ROSEMONT, Ill. – More than one in four children born with a cleft lip and/or palate face a geographic disadvantage to access certified treatment for their...

Are you running with the ‘in’ crowd?

As the saying goes, birds of a feather flock together. Understandably, it’s common for those with like interests, backgrounds and experiences to form ...

Take a cosmetic practice to the next level with facial injectables

Minimally invasive cosmetic facial procedures are quickly becoming the most exciting and controversial topic in cosmetic dentistry. In my mind, there is no ...

Patrick Corbin teams up with AAO to promote National Facial Protection Month

NEW YORK, N.Y., USA: Throughout April, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) partnered with Arizona’s starting pitcher, Patrick Corbin, to ...

Orascoptic’s EyeZoom and Spark are recognized with awards

MIDDLETON, Wis., USA: Orascoptic, a provider of loupe magnification and headlight systems for dental professionals, has been selected as a 2018 recipient of...

Tracking periodontal disease with electronic dental records may enhance diagnosis and treatment

INDIANAPOLIS, US: Despite advances in periodontal disease research and treatments, it remains a growing health issue in the US. To address this topic, ...

Education

Live webinar
Thu. 18 July 2024
8:00 PM EST (New York)