Oral conditions in children with cerebral palsy.

PURPOSE: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a major severe childhood disability and its prevalence is increasing, particularly among premature low-weight newborns. The oral conditions observed demonstrate the need for home and professional care for these individuals. This study aimed to investigate dental caries, plaque index, time of eruption, malocclusion, bruxism and motor oral skills in a group of 62 CP children (study group).

METHODS

The results were compared to those obtained for a control group with 67 normal children. Nonparametric statistical tests including the Mann-Whitney test, Fisher's Exact test (P), Chi-square test (chi2), and Cochran's Q test were used according to the nature of the variables studied, with the level of significance set at P<.05.

RESULTS

The results showed a significantly higher DMFS index for CP children with permanent dentition of both sexes when compared to normal children. A significantly higher plaque index was also observed in the study group. A high tendency to delayed eruption of permanent molars and significantly higher percentages of malocclusion and bruxism were observed in the study group with permanent dentition. Residual food and mouth breathing have been frequently found in CP children.

CONCLUSIONS

Earlier preventive measures for CP patients are required because they are a high-risk group for dental caries.