Publication

Abstract : Pediatric neurological disorders encompass a wide range of disorders, including neurodevelopmental disorders, epilepsy, immunological disorders, neurometabolic disorders, degenerative disorders, and neuromuscular disorders. Oral health forms an integral part of holistic care in children with neurological disorders. Children with neurological disorders are predisposed to oral health problems because of a multitude of associated impairments, namely cognitive, communication, oro-motor, and behavioral. Children with neurodevelopmental, neurometabolic, neurodegenerative, and movement disorders have an increased risk of dental caries and worse gingival status due to the associated impairments. Children with epilepsy are prone to dental trauma and gingival overgrowth due to antiseizure medications. Children with neuromuscular disorders have limited physical mobility and often have facial or bulbar weakness resulting in drooling, swallowing difficulties, and malocclusion. The management of children with hereditary sensory autonomic neuropathy (associated with self-mutilation and dental concerns) is often challenging. Proper precautions need to be taken along with the involvement of an anesthesiologist during procedural sedation/ analgesia for children with neuromuscular disorders.