Dental care and services of children and young people with cerebral palsy in Australia: A comprehensive survey of oral health-related quality of life.

Objective: To investigate caregiver-reported dental care experiences and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) of children and young people with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods: Between May and August 2023, caregivers of children and young people from three Australian states were invited to complete questionnaires, including the Child Oral Health Impact Profile (COHIP-SF 19).

Results: Sixty-eight caregivers participated in the survey. Most children and young people had spastic CP (69.1%) with unilateral spasticity most common (51.1%). The COHIP-SF 19 average score was 51.9% ± 12.4, indicating moderate OHRQoL. Gender, communication, oral health daily routine, participation in dental exams and treatment, special arrangements needed to attend the practice, and urgent dental care due to pain or other problem(s) all significantly impacted OHRQoL (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: OHRQoL of children and young people with CP is moderately impacted, as indicated by the COHIP-SF 19 scores. To improve OHRQoL in this population group, it is crucial to prioritize key factors such as upskilling dental professionals and creating more inclusive dental environments.