A young girl watches her teeth being cleaned. (Eric Albrecht/The Columbus Dispatch/TNS)
Children with developmental disabilities often have a hard time accessing dental care even though they are at higher risk for cavities and other problems. Now, a new guide details what pediatricians should do to help.
In a 20-page clinical report released this week, the American Academy of Pediatrics highlights the unique circumstances faced by people with autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities when it comes to oral health.
These individuals “are at increased risk for dental disease due to unique aspects of their medical conditions, the treatments associated with them, or both,” the guidelines state.
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For example, bruxism, or the voluntary or involuntary clenching or grinding of teeth, is common in this population. In addition, certain factors such as seizures or the use of psychotropic drugs can increase the risk of dental trauma.
The pediatrics group also notes that people with developmental disabilities face additional barriers to accessing care, including challenges in finding dental providers prepared or willing to treat them.
The guide addresses how to manage self-injurious behaviors, the pros and cons of sedation and general anesthesia, and also describes considerations for people with adaptive behaviors such as chewing on objects and excessive drooling.
Primary care providers should identify dental professionals who are trained to care for children and young people with developmental disabilities to whom they can refer patients, the pediatrics group said. Pediatricians are advised to recommend that children have a dental visit by age 1 and to communicate with dental providers about the individual’s intellectual and functional abilities, among other measures.
“Children and young people with developmental disabilities may have more difficulty communicating their needs or need extra help caring for their teeth,” said Dr. Elise Sarvas, lead author of the report. “It is important for pediatricians and dentists to be able to identify oral health needs and communicate with families and each other about how to best provide services to a child.”
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