The effect of an oral health promotion program for people with psychiatric disabilities.

Abstract

Oral health programs for people with psychiatric disabilities are rare. This study examined the feasibility efficacy of an oral health intervention for people with psychiatric disabilities. Fifty individuals were recruited and randomly assigned to receive education, reminder system and mechanical toothbrush or just the mechanical toothbrush. 42 completed the study. Plaque index scores recorded at baseline and after 4 weeks indicate a statistically significant improvement for both groups but those in the enhanced intervention improved significantly more. The results suggest the mechanical toothbrush improves the oral hygiene of people with psychiatric disabilities. The combination of mechanical toothbrush, dental instructions and reminders result in additional improvements.