THE IMPACT OF PERIODONTAL DISEASE IN PATIENTS WITH DISABILITIES: CHALLENGES AND CARE FROM A DENTAL PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

When it comes to dental care for patients with special needs, it is clear that existing legislation is not sufficiently capable of reducing the prevalence of caries lesions, as well as periodontal diseases. In this respect, it is possible to relate this high prevalence of oral health complications to both inadequate professional training during undergraduate courses, but other factors are also involved. This research was developed with the aim of addressing not only the most prevalent oral lesions in people with special needs, but also the limitations in the dental treatment of these cases and strategies to improve the dental treatment of these patients. Through a literature review, it was possible to conclude that cases involving people with special needs (PNEs) involve oral health complications, not only in social aspects, as in ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder), motor impairments as in cases of CP (Cervical Persistence) and Down Syndrome, but also cases of PNEs with HIV/AIDS. However, these impairments can be minimized when the efforts of auxiliary professionals in the oral care of PNEs, as well as their family members, are combined. Furthermore, these rates can be improved if dental schools direct their curricula towards the training of dentists with greater expertise in providing dental care to PNEs.