Factors possibly predisposing to dental disease in children with cerebral palsy.
| Predisposing factors | Mechanism |
|---|---|
| Motor weakness or incoordination | Inability to maintain oral hygiene Depending on a caregiver for self care risk of dental trauma |
| Mental retardation | Inability to maintain oral hygiene Depending on a caregiver for self care |
| Pseudo-bulbar palsy | Chewing and swallowing difficulties Risk of dental caries and erosions Excessive drooling (sialorrhea) |
| Gastroesophageal reflux disease | Recurrent regurgitation and vomiting causing dental erosions |
| Malnutrition | Poor calcium intake Vitamin D deficiency |