Oral Health Access and Quality of Life in Pediatric Cerebral Palsy: A Comprehensive Review
Keywords:
Cerebral palsy, pediatric oral health, dental care access, quality of life, special needs dentistry, caregiver burden, health disparities, oral hygiene, multidisciplinary careAbstract
Background: Children with cerebral palsy (CP) often face multiple barriers to accessing adequate oral healthcare due to physical, cognitive, and socioeconomic challenges. Poor oral health in this population significantly impacts nutrition, communication, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. Objective: This comprehensive review aims to evaluate existing literature on oral health status, accessibility to dental care, and the resulting impact on the quality of life in pediatric patients with cerebral palsy. Methods: A systematic search of peer-reviewed articles was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were selected based on relevance to oral health outcomes, access to care, caregiver perspectives, and quality of life assessments in children with CP. Results: The review reveals that children with CP have a higher prevalence of dental caries, gingivitis, and malocclusion compared to typically developing peers. Access to oral healthcare is limited due to inadequate provider training, transportation barriers, and lack of tailored services. Caregiver knowledge and socioeconomic status also play critical roles in determining oral health outcomes. Evidence suggests that improved oral care significantly enhances life quality by reducing pain, improving functional outcomes, and boosting psychosocial well-being. Conclusion: Enhancing oral health access for children with CP is essential to improving their overall quality of life. Strategies should include provider education, caregiver support, multidisciplinary collaboration, and health policy reforms to ensure inclusive and accessible dental care services.
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