Cerebral Palsy & Oral Health: Common Challenges to Look For

Cerebral palsy (CP) doesn't cause oral issues like thin enamel, missing teeth, or susceptibility to the disease. But life with cerebral palsy can put a child's dental health at risk.

Children with cerebral palsy can find it hard to clear food from their teeth, and they may not brush appropriately. Medications used to treat the condition can further worsen oral health, as can damage caused by seizures.

Crafting an appropriate at-home care program is crucial for children with cerebral palsy. Parents should also partner with a dental health professional who can offer oral care therapies, including sealants and tooth straightening options.

Quick Facts about Cerebral Palsy & Oral Health

About one child in 345 in the United States has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, making this the most common motor disability seen in children. 

In a study of children with CP, more than half had dental cavities. 

A person with cerebral palsy expends three to five times more energy to move than someone without CP. Brushing and flossing can be very taxing for someone with this movement disorder. 

Only 25 percent of people with CP have severe intellectual disabilities. Most can communicate, learn, and advocate for their bodies, including their oral health.

4 Common Oral Health Issues in Children with Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy doesn’t cause oral abnormalities. But people with CP often have difficult or painful conditions that impact oral health. While each person is different, most of these issues stem from the same causes.

What Causes Oral Health Issues in Children With Cerebral Palsy?

While cerebral palsy doesn't change the structure or content of a child's mouth, you may notice the impact of the disease on your child's smile. The causes are varied, but often, families struggle with the same culprits.

What Other Issues Can Make Oral Health Worsen?

Cerebral palsy is an individualized disorder, and many people have secondary conditions that can further worsen their oral health. These are a few of the conditions often found in people with CP:

Daily Dental Care for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Oral health is critical for everyone, including children with cerebral palsy. Setting up a routine now could help set a child up for a lifetime of good health.

Follow these tips to help you get started:

• Question your child. Don't assume all children with cerebral palsy need their parents to handle all of their oral health steps. Some children are perfectly capable of following clear directions carefully explained by their parents. Determine where your child falls on this spectrum and plan accordingly.

• Invest in equipment. Items like custom-made toothbrushes and specially handled flossing devices make cleaning easier.

• Talk with your dentist. Some children with CP need toothpastes low in fluoride, as they tend to swallow products. Others need more powerful toothpaste, as their parents can't use very much in each session. Ask your dentist to guide you.

• Teach as needed. Some children with cerebral palsy can use a toothbrush. Show your child how it's done, and stay on hand to answer questions or adjust techniques as needed.

• Step in to help. Some children with CP can't handle their own oral health steps. Angle your child's head back, and stabilize their head as you brush.Some parents find it's easier to stand behind the child during sessions. Others prefer to lay the child on a bed.

• Inspect often. After each meal, ask your child to open wide and look for trapped or hidden food.

• Rinse well. If your child takes medications, use water to wash away any residue left behind.

In general, your child's teeth should be brushed twice per day. Rinses and inspections round out a daily routine.

But the schedule your family follows is deeply influenced by your child. Work together to find a plan that is ideal for everyone. This process may take some trial and error.

Treatment Options for Children with Cerebral Palsy

A dentist is a great ally for families raising a child with cerebral palsy. Together, you can come up with a plan to keep your child's smile healthy.

Typically, your treatment plan will vary depending on the problems your child is facing. But these are typical issues dental professionals address in children with cerebral palsy:

How to Protect Oral Health Issues at Home

While regular dental appointments are crucial for a child's oral health, there's a lot parents can do at home to keep things healthy. These are three important at-home steps: