Dental professionals’ knowledge about treatment of patients with spinal cord injury

Abstract

This study investigated the knowledge and training of dental professionals to competently serve persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Fifty dental clinics were approached to complete a survey containing questions regarding their special needs training. From the 35 completed surveys, descriptive quantitative data were analyzed. The majority of professionals reported minimal exposure to special needs dentistry during their academic training. Further analysis revealed a lack of expertise in wheelchair transfers or knowledge of possible medical complications. This study suggests that additional training is needed if dental professionals are to comfortably and safely care for patients with SCI.