A greater knowledge of this disorder will help clinicians successfully provide dental care to this vulnerable population.

Medical-dental integration is key in the effort to improve patients’ overall health.

While the research is mixed on whether this population is at increased risk for dental caries, dental hygienists are well-positioned to help these patients maintain their oral health.

Understanding the clinical implications and the barriers to care faced by patients with this type of disability is key to helping them maintain their oral health.

Risk assessment and management are key to a caries prevention strategy.

Various imaging modalities play an important role in the diagnosis and pre- and post-surgical phases of orofacial cleft therapy.

Sharp instruments are crucial to achieving successful outcomes in nonsurgical periodontal therapy.

How effective are antimicrobial mouthrinses in reducing caries prevalence among children assessed as high risk?

By offering further education in dental hygiene, the science 
and practice of the profession will advance.

While at increased risk for these injuries, dental hygienists can implement strategies for effective prevention and care to ensure the longevity of their careers.