Gingivitis is a common problem in children with cerebral palsy (CP). What preventive measure should be included in the plan of care?

Gingivitis is a common problem in children with cerebral palsy (CP). What preventive measure should be included in the plan of care?

a.
High-carbohydrate diet
b.
Meticulous dental hygiene
c.
Minimum use of fluoride
d.
Avoidance of medications that contribute to gingivitis

ANS: B

Meticulous oral hygiene is essential. Many children with CP have congenital enamel defects, high-carbohydrate diets, poor nutritional intake, and difficulty closing their mouths. These, coupled with the child’s spasticity or clonic movements, make oral hygiene difficult. Children with CP have high carbohydrate intake and retention, which contribute to dental caries. Use of fluoride should be encouraged through fluoridated water or supplements and toothpaste. Certain medications such as phenytoin do contribute to gingival hyperplasia. If that is the drug of choice, then meticulous oral hygiene must be used.