Caregivers' Awareness and Behavior Impacting the Oral Health of Pediatric and Adolescent Patients with Disabilities

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the dental caries experience and dental care utilization of pediatric and adolescent patients with disabilities, and to investigate the impact of various factors and the role of caregivers on their oral health. Patients aged 4 - 18 years and their caregivers were enrolled. Data on caregivers’ oral health management practices and perceptions, as well as patients’ toothbrushing frequency and use of dental floss, were collected. Clinical examinations measured the decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT/dmft) index and plaque index (PI). Among the 141 participants, the most common types of disabilities were autism spectrum disorder (45.4%) and intellectual disabilities (26.2%). Caregivers provided complete assistance with tooth brushing for 49.6% of patients, and 63.8% reported brushing their teeth twice daily. Patients with intellectual and multiple disabilities had a relatively high DMFT/dmft index. A higher level of caregiver assistance during tooth brushing was associated with a lower DMFT/dmft index. Increased frequency of tooth brushing and flossing correlated with lower PI and DMFT/dmft index. The availability of specialized care centers for individuals with disabilities was important for 89.4% when choosing a dental clinic. The main barriers to dental visits were dental anxiety (46.1%) and a lack of specialized dentists (41.8%). Caregiver involvement and regular oral hygiene practices significantly impact the oral health of pediatric and adolescent patients with disabilities. There is a need for specialized care centers, healthcare professionals, and government financial support for the care of patients with disabilities.