Care for Adults with Mild Intellectual Disability in a Mobile Dental Unit: Considerations, Recommendations and Learnings.

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with Intellectual Disability (ID) have the right to receive the highest standard of healthcare, with supportive environments that address their cognitive, physical, and emotional needs. Unfortunately, adults with ID are frequently marginalized in society, and free coverage for their medical services is limited.

CONTEXT: With the purpose of improving access to dental care services for groups in situations of vulnerability, Community Dentistry and the implementation of Mobile Dental Units (MDUs) have been a solution to cover health needs and to reduce barriers regarding transportation and distance. Limited scientific reports have been found regarding community dental care for people with ID.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this Narrative Review is to delineate general considerations and recommendations for dental care of adults with mild ID in community settings, as well as mentioning some learnings obtained from a Social Service Program in Mexico with a Mobile Dental Unit.

CONCLUSION

It would be beneficial for the healthcare personnel to stay up-to-date with scientific information and clinical training in Community and Special Care Dentistry for the management of patients with Disabilities.