Dental and oral hygiene problems are among the top 10 secondary conditions that limit function among adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Oral problems include untreated caries and higher rates of gingivitis. Etiology and severity, as well as age and residential arrangements affect oral health and hygiene.

This pilot project explored low cost strategies for managing oral health and promoting good oral health behaviors with consumer education and support of personal assistants or peers.

Publications:

Rural Disability and Rehabilitation Research Progress Report #30: Oral Health Program for Adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities: Results of a Pilot Study (posted on the Montana Disability and Health Program web site.) 2004

Rural Disability and Rehabilitation Research Progress Report #29:Oral Health and Hygiene: Priorities for Adults with Intellectual and  Developmental Disabilities (posted on the Montana Disability and Health Program web site.) 2004

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For more information, contact:

Donna Bainbridge, Project Director
RTC: Rural, The University of Montana Rural Institute: A Center for
Excellence in Disability Education, Research and Services
52 Corbin Hall, Missoula, MT 59812-7056 |   (888) 268-2743 or (406) 243-4956 | email Donna Bainbridge

(Opinions expressed are those of RTC: Rural staff and are not necessarily those of the U.S. Department of Education or Centers for Disease Control)  

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