A Commentary on Addressing Oral Health Inequalities in Individuals with Learning Disabilities: Evaluating Oral Health Promotion Interventions

Abstract

Individuals with learning disabilities (LD) face a range of health inequalities, including poor oral health. Oral health is closely linked to systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and dementia. Improving an individual’s oral health can positively impact on the management and outcomes of these chronic conditions. However, individuals with LD encounter unique challenges in acquiring new knowledge and skills, which can hinder effective oral hygiene practices. This commentary aims to critically evaluate the methods used in a systematic review on the effectiveness of oral health promotion for individuals with LD and to contextualize its findings for clinical practice.