Over the past three decades, a trend toward deinstitutionalization has brought people of all ages and levels of disability into the fabric of our communities. Today, approximately 80 percent of those with developmental disabilities live in community-based group residences or at home with their families. People with disabilities and their caregivers now look to providers in the community for dental services.
Providing oral care to patients with developmental disabilities requires adaptation of skills used every day. In fact, most people with mild or moderate developmental disabilities can be treated successfully in the general practice setting. Information on this web site presents an overview of physical, mental, and behavioral challenges common in patients with special needs and offers strategies for providing oral care.
Practical Oral Care for People With Developmental Disabilities: Making a Difference is sponsored by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research through its National Oral Health Information Clearinghouse. This project is conducted in partnership with the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Special Care Dentistry.
View the list of individual publications.