Gender differences in special needs populations.

The August 2000 Surgeon General's report confirmed that neglected, vulnerable populations in the United States are not adequately receiving oral health services. The silent epidemic of dental and oral diseases in population groups such as persons with MRDD and the geriatric population results in a diminished quality of life. This article presents a study and research design intended to gather data and report the results as related to the needs of a population with MRDD.

The appropriate use of physical restraint: considerations.

Many people with severe and profound mental retardation have poor oral health and suffer from inadequate oral hygiene. They may also have neurological disorders and limited intellect, which can erect barriers to dental treatment, such as resistive behavior. Lack of an agreed-upon definition of physical restraint by clinicians or governmental and administrative nondental professionals adds to the problem.

Dental neglect: definition and prevention in the Louisiana Developmental Centers for patients with MRDD.

When dental services and appropriate use of restraints are used for persons who are severely and profoundly mentally retarded and developmentally disabled (MRDD), oral health is enhanced and dental neglect is controlled or even reduced. This paper defines dental neglect and examines the consequences to persons who are MRDD when appropriate restraints and preventive dental home care are not used. Oral health outcome assessment data of this MRDD population indicate the presence or absence of dental neglect.