Dento-facial infections in children visiting the emergency department may indicate underlying general neglect, highlighting a critical need for awareness among healthcare professionals.
Approximately 48% of children treated for these infections were already known to social services, with the highest incidence seen in 5-8-year-olds, suggesting increased vulnerability to neglect.
The study calls for improved support for families and urges clinicians to recognize dento-facial infections as potential indicators of broader neglect issues.