Management of the patient with mental retardation: a case report.

During the course of their careers dental professionals frequently interact with individuals presenting with mental retardation. In order to provide the best possible quality of care they should be aware of the etiology of mental retardation, the medical and dental conditions associated with this disability, and the services which can be incorporated into a treatment plan focused on improving the oral health for these individuals. This article identifies basic information dental professionals need to know when treating people with mental retardation, as well as describing a case report of the dental hygiene services that were provided to a patient presenting with this disability.