Oral Health Promotion among Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: A Systematic Review

People with disabilities experience inferior health and poor access to good quality health services as compared with the general population. Optimum oral health is associated with improvement in the quality of life in such patients. As oral diseases are largely preventable, good oral health education can have a positive impact on individuals with disabilities. So, the aim of the study was to review the effectiveness of oral health promotion among individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs). Seven electronic databases were searched using keywords like intellectual disability/mental retardation/learning disability AND dental health education/health promotion. All records that were identified electronically from this search were subjected to a preliminary review to identify eligible papers. Identified studies were grouped into oral health promotion directed at individuals with IDs, and those aimed at caregivers of people with IDs. Interpretation of the outcomes included the effects on oral health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (either observed or self-reported). Eventually, 16 studies were included in the review including five studies that were randomized controlled trials, while the remaining 11 studies were pre-post single group oral health promotion studies. Critical appraisal of each study was conducted with the 21-item criteria by Kay and Locker (1997) to provide a numerical quantification and ranking of the evidence. Positive changes in the behaviors and attitudes were observed, while other studies reported a considerable improvement in the knowledge of caregivers for oral healthcare of individuals with IDs. However, such activities need to be done over a long period of time with constant monitoring.

Literature search strategies in dental education and research

A well-organized literature search is a fundamental requirement for research-based dental education. The execution of a literature search is not beneficial unless researchers possess basic knowledge about it. In this article, all basic strategies and research tools essentially required for a literature search, including Boolean operators, correct use of keywords, database selection, and the evaluation of filtered data and limitations, are discussed. The present article offers vital information and literature search guidelines for early career dental researchers and dental students. In addition, it contains a collection of all the essential information related to the generally used electronic databases in dentistry research. This will be helpful for dental students, residents, consultants, and allied science researchers.

Satisfaction of Oral Health Education among Parents and Caregivers Regarding Children with Special Healthcare Needs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

AIM AND OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the satisfaction of an oral health promotion program among parents and caregivers of children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A digital survey using Google forms was used during an event to commemorate the World Disability Day. Stalls for oral health education and training were set up at Disabled Children Society, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Oral health education was carried out using written pamphlets, brochures, and videos. Live demonstration on dental models was used for tooth-brushing training using a powered toothbrush. Parents and caregivers were asked to complete a survey about oral health education during the event. An overall 189 parents and caregivers of CSHCN including 62 males and 127 females completed the survey. The responses were entered digitally prior to being evaluated.

RESULTS

The respondents were parents and/or caregivers of children mostly having cerebral palsy followed by autism. Females consisted of 67% of the respondents. Eight-one percent of respondents rated it as highly satisfied. Ninety-one percent of the respondents perceived that the information provided was new for them regarding oral healthcare for CSHCN. Ninety-eight percent of respondents were likely to attend a similar event in the future.

CONCLUSION

Majority of parents and caregivers of CSHCN were highly satisfied by the oral health education during the event. They felt that they can take better care of the oral health of their CSHCN after the oral health education and training.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Oral health among CSHCN is neglected when compared to children among the general population. CSHCN exhibit many barriers to oral health care. Oral health promotion among CSHCN is important as they have a high unmet oral health need.