Oral Health Status and Barriers among Children with Cerebral Palsy in Maintaining Oral Hygiene: An Interventional Study

Abstract

Context:

Cerebral palsy is a neuromuscular disorder that hampers proper maintenance of oral hygiene leading to the development of periodontal diseases and progression of dental caries.

Aim:

The present study aimed to analyze the oral health status and barriers to maintaining oral hygiene among children with cerebral palsy using intervention (brushing technique).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 children diagnosed with cerebral palsy were selected from an academic institution for special needs children. The groups studied were: a) Group A with children aged between 6 and 10 years, b) Group B had children aged from 11 to 15 years, and c) Group C with children aged range from 16 to 18 years of age. Parental education level status was classified into a) Upper class (Code 1): Parents with a college education, b) Middle class (Code 2): Parents with education till secondary school level, and c) Lower class (Code 3): Parents with primary school level or no education. Oral examinations were performed using a mouth mirror, explorer, and torch light illumination to assess DMFT index (permanent dentition), DMFT index (primary dentition), and OHI-S for gingival and periodontal health. Fone’s technique for tooth brushing was demonstrated to children’s caregivers and/or parents. After this, an oral examination was conducted at the baseline and at three months. One-way ANOVA was used for statistical analysis using SPSS software.

Result:

Statistically significant improvement in dental caries index and oral hygiene status was seen following demonstration of proper brushing technique.

Conclusion:

The training of caregivers/parents helps in improving the oral hygiene status in cerebral palsy-affected children.