Dental treatment and Oral hygiene management for the disabled

Kwak, Eun-Jung

J Korean Dent Assoc > Volume 59(1); 2021 > Article

The Journal of The Korean Dental Association 2021;59(1):63-71.
Published online December 31, 2020.

장애인 치과 치료의 실제와 구강위생관리를 위한 고려사항

곽은정

서울대학교치과병원 중앙장애인구강진료센터

Dental treatment and Oral hygiene management for the disabled

Eun-Jung Kwak

National Dental Care Center for Persons with Special Needs Seoul National University Dental Hospital

Correspondence: Eun-Jung Kwak, Tel: +82-2-2072-4467, Fax: +82-2-2072-3018,
Email: ejkwak@snudh.org

Abstract

Dental treatment for the disabled requires special consideration. Due to poor cooperation of the patient during dental procedures, behavioral management or general anesthesia is often necessary. We also need to consider the patient’s oral habits and ability to maintain oral hygiene. Since dental treatment may be difficult for the disabled, prevent is more important than treatment itself. In addition, secondary dental caries and periodontal disease after treatment are likely to occur when proper oral care is not sustained. Because the patient is difficult to maintain optimal oral hygiene by themselves, it is essential to educate the guardian about the importance of oral hygiene, as well as encourage them to participate in the patient’s daily oral care. Finally, it is necessary to regularly check the patient’s oral hygiene status and perform professional plaque control through frequent dental visit.

Key Words: Dental treatment for the disabled; Special care dentistry; Oral hygiene management; Salivary pathogens