Oral and dental health in people with cerebral palsy

Differences in muscle tone, coordination and movement can have significant impact on oral and dental health in people with cerebral palsy. Dentition and tooth alignment are impacted by movement of the tongue during development. Malocclusion has cosmetic and functional effects, and can require significant orthodontic work.

Chewing and swallowing difficulties in people with cerebral palsy can lead to food not being adequately cleared from the mouth. Motor difficulties, persistent bite reflex and oral hypersensitivity may contribute to difficulty with effective teeth cleaning and flossing.

Dental review every 6 months is recommended for people with cerebral palsy. For strategies to optimise oral health in people with developmental disability, see Oral and dental health.

Poor oral and dental health can exacerbate sialorrhoea.