Care of Teeth and Gums for People With Cerebral Palsy
Good dental care is very important for people with cerebral palsy
because they are prone to teeth and gum problems. It is often very difficult
for people with
cerebral palsy to clean their teeth. These
difficulties often are related to having:
- Jaw muscles and joints that don't
relax.
- Problems with gagging and biting down on their
toothbrushes.
- Sensitive tongues and mouths.
- Less
protective coating (enamel) on their teeth.
- Teeth that are not
correctly positioned.
- Problems holding and using a
toothbrush.
Help your child or other family member with cerebral palsy keep his
or her teeth and gums healthy by:
- Providing special cleaning devices such as
electric toothbrushes.
- Buying toothpaste for sensitive
gums.
- Scheduling regular visits to a dentist for teeth
cleaning.
- Being aware that some people with cerebral palsy may
never be able to care for their own teeth and gums. Be prepared to provide
consistent assistance if your family member needs it.
- Talking with
an occupational therapist about other ways you can help with teeth and gum
care.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics |
| Last Revised | September 20, 2012 |