Cerebral Palsy and Periodontal Disease

Oral health is essential to general health and quality of life, and poor oral health can be a known cause of disability. The neuromuscular deficits present in cerebral palsy have a profound impact on dental health in a multitude of ways. These may include modifications to the orofacial region's structure, issues with feeding, challenges with maintaining oral hygiene, and difficulties getting access to dental care for people with cerebral palsy. Orofacial motor impairment is indeed very prevalent in cerebral palsy patients, which can make it challenging for them to maintain adequate oral hygiene, resulting in an increase in the accumulation and retention of dental biofilm. The high incidence of caries and periodontal diseases are identified in individuals with cerebral palsy and has also been correlated with factors like dietary consistency, snacking in between meals, and related oromotor dysfunction. The primary objective of this library dissertation is to cast light on the potential correlations between periodontal diseases and neuromuscular deficits involved in cerebral palsy that hinder adequate oral hygiene maintenance.