The Impact of ADHD Symptoms on Children’s Oral Health

Abstract

OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms and various oral health outcomes in children, including dental trauma, plaque accumulation, gingivitis, endodontic treatment, and molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH). MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty children (42 boys and 38 girls) aged 3 to 17 years participated in the study. Caregivers completed a standardized ADHD diagnostic tool (ADHDT) assessing inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Each child underwent a comprehensive oral examination to assess the presence of plaque, gingivitis, dental trauma, endodontically treated teeth, and MIH. RESULTS No statistically significant associations were observed between ADHD symptoms and the presence of plaque, gingivitis, endodontic treatment, or MIH. However, a significant association was found between higher hyperactivity and impulsivity scores and increased incidence of dental trauma. Inattention symptoms did not demonstrate a significant relationship with any of the oral health indicators. CONCLUSIONS Children exhibiting higher levels of hyperactivity and impulsivity may be at increased risk for dental trauma. These findings highlight the importance of integrating behavioral assessments into pediatric dental care to better identify and manage children who may be more vulnerable to oral injuries.