Dental care and barriers to oral health in children with disabilities at a referral center in Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62305/biosana.v6i3.1089Keywords:
oral health; disability; pediatric dentistry; access barriers; caregiversAbstract
Children with disabilities exhibit increased vulnerability to oral health problems, associated with barriers to accessing dental services and limitations in daily care. The aim of this study was to determine dental care needs and oral health barriers in children with functional diversity treated at a referral center in Ecuador. An observational, descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 100 patients, using caregiver surveys and clinical record reviews. Sociodemographic variables, type of disability, hygiene habits, caregiver dependency, oral health barriers, and treatments received were analyzed. The results showed a high frequency of dental interventions, with a predominance of restorations and extractions among patients with language disorders, whereas other groups presented a lower frequency of treatments, suggesting possible inequities in care. Additionally, a high level of caregiver dependency and limited knowledge of oral hygiene techniques were identified as major barriers. It is concluded that significant dental care needs exist in this population, influenced by educational and access-related factors, highlighting the importance of implementing comprehensive strategies aimed at improving equity and quality of care.
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