Objectives: This study aims to assess the degree of intellectual disability, socio-demographic factors and manual dexterity as determinants of the periodontal state of the intellectually disabled (ID) of the north western part of India.
Methods: A cross-sectional study of questionnaires was carried out between 150 subjects via face-to-face interviews by two examiners (k = 0.86), on the type of disability, socio-demographic factors and oral hygiene habits. Clinical examination was conducted for manual dexterity and periodontal health assessment.
Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the ID subgroups in terms of gender, number of siblings, income, habits, visit to the dentist, reason for visit to the dentist and manual dexterity of brushing.
The mean plaque, gingival and CPITN score scores of severely disabled subjects were significantly higher.
Conclusions: Periodontal health is a major problem for schoolchildren with disabilities; Therefore, oral health promotion programs should target institutions and parents of children with disabilities
Keywords: Intellectual disability, Socio-demographic factors, Manual dexterity, IQ, Periodontal status