Oral Health At Risk Among Special Needs Patients
Special Needs Population Experiences Higher Rate of Oral Health Problems Special Needs Population Experiences Higher Rate of Oral Health Problems A study published in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association demonstrates that people with
Oral Health At Risk Among Special Needs Patients
A study published in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dental Association demonstrates that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience more severe oral health problems than the general population. Researchers reviewed the electronic dental records of 4,732 adults with IDD and found that approximately 32% had untreated dental caries. In addition, 80% showed signs of periodontal diseases, and 10% exhibited tooth loss.
Researchers from Tufts University in Boston conducted the study at Tufts Dental Facilities Serving People with Special Needs, a Massachusetts-based network of special care facilities. The causes of these dismal trends, according to lead author John P. Morgan, DDS, are not easy to determine. Potential factors include: lack of understanding among both people with disabilities, as well as their caregivers, about how to maintain oral health; limited dexterity that inhibits the ability to perform self-care; use of medications that cause xerostomia; access to care problems; and inadequate training of dental professionals on how to effectively treat patients with special needs.
Morgan said the findings highlight “the demand for greater awareness of the unique and complex dental health care needs of this population. The roles of the patient, caregiver, and dental provider are all vital in developing preventive strategies to improve oral health.”
The study’s authors assert that additional research is needed to identify effective strategies for improving the oral health of patients with IDD.
