Promoting oral care in children with additional needs: The role of the multidisciplinary team

Children with disabilities and additional needs are at increased risk of poor oral health (Ningrum et al, 2021), which is associated with pain, impaired function, difficulty sleeping and poor self-esteem (Goodwin et al, 2015; Guarnizo-Herreño and Wehby, 2012). They may require additional support or adjustments and may rely on others to maintain their oral hygiene. Some may exhibit behaviours of concern which can make providing basic oral care more difficult, and they may struggle to tolerate the noises, smells, tastes, and other sensations involved (British Society of Paediatric Dentistry, n.d. a; American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 2021; National Institute of Dental Craniofacial Research, 2023). Others may have physical disabilities which reduce their dexterity, and some may find it difficult to stay still for the time required to complete a dental examination or treatment. Other factors can also increase this patient group's risk of dental problems. For example, certain medications and supplementary feeds may increase risk of dental decay. Oral habits which can impact on oral health such as grinding, drooling, food pouching, are also more prevalent (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, 2021; Chadwick, Chapman, and Davies, 2018). Difficulty accessing appropriate dental care can further compound this group's risk of poor oral health, as well as difficulties understanding or expressing pain, which can result in late presentation to healthcare providers (Public Health England, 2019).