Oral Hygiene Tips and Resources for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Good oral hygiene is particularly important for children with cerebral palsy, who often experience a range of dental issues. For instance, kids with cerebral palsy tend to suffer from the following:
- Poor dental alignment
- Dental erosion caused by gastroesophageal reflux and/or vomiting
- Gingivitis caused by certain medications, especially seizure drugs
- Damaging oral habits such as teeth grinding, regurgitation, compulsive eating of non-edible substances and pouching (holding food in the pocket between the teeth and cheek for prolonged periods)
Good Oral Hygiene Starts at Home
One of the best ways of preventing oral health problems is by practicing good oral hygiene at home. The following are a few tips for taking care of your child’s teeth at home:
- Make sure to brush your child’s teeth after every meal and each dose of medication, which almost always contain sugar.
- Use a toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association
- Support your child’s head while brushing, and be sure to give lots of praise
- Provide your child with a healthy, low-sugar diet
- Take your child in for regular teeth cleanings and evaluations
Finding a dentist who specializes in the care of special needs patient is not always easy, but it will make a significant difference in the level of care your child receives. Children with cerebral palsy tend to have special needs when it comes to dental care: Some kids may need to be treated under general anesthesia, and others who have severe gag reflex may require special dental radiographs. Also, there may be special considerations for fillings and bridgework.
The National Foundation of Dentistry for the Handicapped, the Special Care Dentistry Association and the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors are all great resources for those needing to locate special dental services in their area.
