Differences in the Oral Health of Children With Medical Complexity.

Objective: Children with medical complexity (CMC), a subgroup of children with special health care needs (CSHCN) with the most serious medical conditions and disabilities, are at risk for negative effects from poor oral health. CSHCN have high rates of poor oral health, including cavities. This study aimed to compare oral health status between CMC and CSHCN.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional analysis of the 2016-17 National Survey of Child Health data. CMC and CSHCN were identified using validated algorithms. The primary outcome was oral health status; secondary outcomes included dental service use. Bivariate analyses compared the prevalence and service use by medical complexity status. Multivariable logistic regression assessed oral health outcomes by complexity, adjusting for influencing variables.

Results: Of 16,178 CSHCN ages 1 to 17 years, 6% were CMC and 94% were non-CMC CSHCN. Compared to CSHCN, CMC had a higher prevalence of fair/poor teeth conditions (19% vs 9%; P < 0.001) and higher odds for fair/poor teeth conditions after adjusting for socioeconomic factors (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.54; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-2.34). There was no statistically significant difference between groups when assessing cavities, toothache, or receipt of most preventive dental services.

Conclusions: One in 5 CMC are reported by caregivers as having poor oral health, including cavities, despite high rates of receiving preventive dental services. After adjusting for socioeconomic factors, medical complexity remained associated with fair or poor teeth conditions. Understanding potentially modifiable targets could further help families of CMC prioritize dental needs and potentially reduce negative effects on overall health.