Oral Hygiene Status in Special Needs Children

Abstract

Aim: Analyze the oral health and challenges faced by children with special needs and to educate them about the benefits and ways of maintaining good oral hygiene. Material and Methods: 100 participants with special needs were divided into two groups: intellectually disabled and physically disabled. Oral examination was done and clinical parameters like plaque index (PI), Oral hygiene index-simplified (OHI-S) and organoleptic assessment was done. Parents / guardians were asked to answer a questionnaire addressing different aspects of the children oral health and challenges faced for maintaining good oral hygiene. Data regarding the factors that could impair toothbrushing were also collected, including the patient’s ability to rinse his / her mouth, capacity to open the mouth and keep it open during toothbrushing. Results: According to this study, the OHI-S mean value and halitosis score of physically disabled group is less than intellectually disabled group. Conclusion: Even though efforts have been made to improve the oral health of these less fortunate children, there has been a shortfall of government policies. So, to improve the general and oral health of such special child’s specific steps must be taken to provide medical facilities and spreading awareness about importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.