Medical and Dental Implications of Cerebral Palsy: Part 2: Oral and Dental Characteristics: A Review

Abstract

Abstract: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of neuromuscular disorders that affects the development of movement and posture, causing activity limitations. CP is classified into three main groups: spastic, dyskinetic and ataxic. Population-based studies from around the world report estimates of CP prevalence ranging from 1.5 to more than 4 per 1,000 live births. CP children suffer from numerous problems and potential disabilities such as mental retardation, epilepsy, feeding difficulties, and ophthalmologic and hearing impairments. Intra orally, Patients with cerebral palsy are reported to have several oral health problems such as poor oral hygiene, bruxism, drooling, traumatic dental injuries, and malocclusion. A literature search was conducted to identify the key oral and dental manifestations of CP. These findings are discussed and utilized to suggest recommendations for treatment planning in CP patients for the dental practitioner. The findings might also help other medical professionals in understanding the oral health status of CP patients and the importance of liaison with dental professionals.