Cerebral Palsy Dental Health: Common Issues and Treatments

Caring for a child’s teeth is an essential part of their overall health, but cerebral palsy dental care comes with unique challenges.

Many children with cerebral palsy (CP) struggle with oral health due to muscle control issues, trouble swallowing, or difficulty maintaining daily hygiene routines. Without proper care, common dental problems can worsen and lead to serious complications.

February is National Children's Dental Health Month 2025, making it the perfect time to focus on cerebral palsy dental health.

Learn about common cerebral palsy dental issues and the best treatment options to help families manage oral care more effectively.

Cerebral Palsy and Dental Care Challenges

Symptoms of cerebral palsy, like challenges with muscle control, swallowing, and coordination, create a higher risk of dental problems.

These issues can make oral hygiene difficult, increasing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and enamel erosion.

Muscle stiffness or involuntary movements may also make dental health challenging, requiring special accommodations from experienced dentists.

"People with CP can have trouble holding a toothbrush, handling dental floss, chewing and swallowing, and more. All these problems contribute to poor oral health."

— Penn Dental Medicine

In addition to difficulties with daily dental care, many children with CP have dental structure differences, like crowded or misaligned teeth, abnormal tooth size, and delayed eruption.

These challenges make brushing and flossing difficult, raising the risk of dental complications.

With a higher risk of oral health issues, children with CP benefit from early intervention, specialized treatment, and consistent care.

Common Dental Conditions in Children With CP

Children with any type of cerebral palsy can face unique oral health challenges beyond cavities and gum disease.

Certain conditions are more common or severe in children with CP due to muscle tone differences, swallowing difficulties, and problems moving their lips, tongue, and mouth muscles.

Here are 5 common cerebral palsy dental issues:

1. Bruxism (teeth grinding): Many children with spastic cerebral palsy grind their teeth, wearing down enamel and causing jaw pain, headaches, and tooth sensitivity.
2. Hyperactive gag reflex: Some children with CP have an overly sensitive gag reflex, making brushing, flossing, and dental visits more difficult.
3. Low muscle tone: Weak oral muscles can affect a child's ability to chew, swallow, and maintain proper tongue positioning, leading to difficulty clearing food from the mouth.
4. Excess saliva (sialorrhea): Many children with CP experience drooling, which can contribute to skin irritation and increase the risk of cavities or infections.
5. Tooth decay: Difficulty brushing, inconsistent oral hygiene, or food remaining in the cheeks can lead to cavities and decay. If untreated, this can cause pain, infections, or tooth loss.

With specialized dental care, early intervention, and the proper techniques, children with cerebral palsy can maintain good oral health and reduce their risk of complications.

Tips for Cerebral Palsy Dental Treatment and Care

Children with cerebral palsy often need specialized dental care. Below are some ways to improve your child’s oral health at home and during dental visits.

At-Home Cerebral Palsy Dental Care

Daily oral hygiene can be challenging for children with cerebral palsy, but adaptive tools, assistive devices, and techniques can make it easier.

Here are some strategies to improve dental care at home:

• Adaptive toothbrushes: Use an electric or modified toothbrush with a larger handle or strap for easier grip.
• Brushing techniques: Angle the toothbrush at 45 degrees and use gentle, circular motions to reach all surfaces.
• Fluoride treatments: Ask your dentist about fluoride varnish or prescription toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
• Mouth positioning: Lay your child on a bed or reclining chair for better access to their teeth.
• Oral rinses: If brushing is difficult, fluoride mouth rinses can help reduce plaque and cavities.
• Saliva management: Certain medications or therapy techniques may help if excess drooling is an issue

Consistent at-home care is essential, but professional dental treatment can provide additional support for children with cerebral palsy.

Professional Cerebral Palsy Dental Treatment

Children with cerebral palsy may require specialized dental care beyond daily hygiene. Dentists trained in treating patients with CP can provide additional support and accommodations.

Consider these options when seeking professional treatment:

• Dental sedation options: For children with severe mobility limitations or anxiety, sedation (medication to help relax) can make dental care safer and more comfortable.
• Orthodontic care: Some children may need braces or other treatments for misaligned teeth.
• Protective treatments: Sealants and fluoride applications can help prevent decay in hard-to-clean areas.
• Sensory accommodations: Noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, or scheduling short visits may help reduce discomfort.

Good oral hygiene and regular checkups help prevent dental problems. Working with a knowledgeable dentist and using adaptive tools can improve daily care.

Helping Families Navigate Cerebral Palsy

As we recognize National Children’s Dental Health Month 2025, it’s a good time to focus on the unique dental needs of children with cerebral palsy.

Muscle control challenges, sensory sensitivities, and oral coordination issues can make daily hygiene and professional treatment more difficult. With the right support, families can take steps to protect their child’s oral health.

At Cerebral Palsy Guide, we are committed to helping families navigate the challenges of cerebral palsy. We may be able to help you access cerebral palsy financial support to cover the cost of medical care, therapy, and specialized treatments.

If you have questions about your child’s condition or available resources, our registered nurses are here to help.

Call us at (855) 220-1101 to speak with a caring nurse today — at no cost.

Written by:Cerebral Palsy Guide

Cerebral Palsy Guide was founded upon the goal of educating families about cerebral palsy, raising awareness, and providing support for children, parents, and caregivers affected by the condition. Our easy-to-use website offers simple, straightforward information that provides families with medical and legal solutions. We are devoted to helping parents and children access the tools they need to live a life full of happiness