Cerebral Palsy and Dentistry: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Cerebral palsy is defined by reduced cognitive and psychomotor capacity and ability caused by cerebral hypoxia. Patients with cerebral palsy usually have a higher incidence of diseases than the general population. Both systemic and stomatological alterations are commonly observed. Dentistry provides part of the special care that patients with cerebral palsy may require, and the dental surgeon must be prepared to meet their needs, both preventively and curatively. Care requires not only specific oral health care, but also a psychological approach and support for family members and carers, favouring general health and quality of life of the patient with cerebral palsy. The purpose of this article is to review stomatological and behavioural characteristics to help establish a protocol for caring for patients with cerebral palsy