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In addition to providing parents with
anticipatory guidance for all infants and young
children (see Module 2, section
2.6; Module 4, section
4.3, Anticipatory Guidance; and Module
6, section 6.1, Anticipatory Guidance),
health professionals can help prevent or reduce the
seriousness of oral health problems in infants and
young children with special health care needs by
providing parents with the following anticipatory
guidance:[11],[12]
-
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Fig 7. Examples of toothbrushes
with adaptive handles
(courtesy of Paul Burtner, D.M.D.)
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Pillows, a beanbag chair, or other devices may
be useful in positioning the child comfortably and
correctly while teeth are being brushed.
- If the child has difficulty keeping his mouth
open during brushing and flossing, talk to an oral
health professional for guidance.
- Many products (e.g., adaptive aids for toothbrushes)
are available to help prevent tooth decay and gum
disease in children with special health care needs.
Talk to an oral health professional about recommendations
to meet your child’s oral health needs.
- An appropriate-size electric toothbrush may be
recommended to facilitate optimal plaque removal
and gum massaging.
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