ORAL HYGIENE IN CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY: KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF MOTHERS OR GUARDIANS

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebral palsy involves motor and postural alterations that may compromise oral hygiene, making the participation of mothers or guardians essential. Daily care requires knowledge and techniques suited to each child’s needs but may be hindered by physical limitations, resistance to toothbrushing, and caregivers’ uncertainties, highlighting the importance of individualized guidance. Objective: To investigate these caregivers’ knowledge, practices, and difficulties regarding oral hygiene in children with cerebral palsy. Methods: This observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study used a quantitative and qualitative approach with a convenience sample of 16 mothers or guardians at an association in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. A questionnaire with ten Likert-scale items and one open-ended question was administered and analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic categorization. Results: Full or partial agreement on the importance of dental follow-up and the risks of inadequate hygiene reached 93.8% for each item. Neutral responses concerned toothbrush selection (43.8%), toothpaste selection (37.5%), and adapted techniques (50.0%). Physical and oral-motor barriers and behavioral or sensory refusal were each reported by 31.3% of participants. Conclusion: Recognition of the importance of prevention coexisted with technical uncertainty and practical difficulties, indicating a need for individualized guidance and demonstrations adapted to families.