Masalah Penanganan Perawatan Gigi pada Penderita Cacat

Abstract

Dentistry for the handicapped has been neglected and traditionally the Pediatric Dentist have been mainly responsible for the dental care of the handicapped. In the past, dentists were reluctant to accept these patients because of a feeling of inadequacy. The actual dental needs of the handicapped may not differ greatly from normal individuals, but the provision of treatment is usually more difficult. A large proportion of handicapped individuals have poor oral health than do non-handicapped individuals. Treatment programming is considered for the total well-being of the patient and the prevention of dental disease. Dental management of the handicapped is a most rewarding task in the private practice. The difficulties of providing dental treatment for the handicapped patient can be greatly reduced if the dentist can understand better the more common conditions of the physical and psychological manifestations of the underlying condition.