Orthodontic status of children with cerebral palsy in Arkhangelsk

Abstract

Relevance. Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common disease, which causes early disability in children and affects their dental status. The absence of malocclusion prevalence situational analysis precludes good planning of orthodontic care in the comprehensive rehabilitation of children and adolescents with CP. The study aimed to assess the orthodontic status in Arkhangelsk children and adolescents with primary, mixed and permanent dentition to ground the inclusion of an orthodontist in a multidisciplinary team. Materials and methods. In 2021, the study examined 110 children and adolescents aged 11 months to 17 years with confirmed CP undergoing treatment at the Arkhangelsk Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Center. We performed an oral examination, interviewed parents (guardians) on bad habits in children and adolescents, objectively examined and assessed the orthodontic status and functional impairment (chewing, swallowing, breathing). Results. The prevalence of malocclusion in children and adolescents with CP is 100%. Malocclusion was detected in primary, mixed and permanent dentitions. We diagnosed distal occlusion (75.4%), open bite in primary teeth (66.6%), deep overbite in permanent dentition (60.1%), severe overjet (71.8%) and unilateral crossbite (3.6%). Conclusion. The results suggest reconsidering approaches to dental pathology prevention and treatment in spastic CP. Early diagnosis of initial malocclusion and customized preventive measures are essential in comprehensive treatment and prevention programs.