Child Abuse And Neglect In Pediatric Dentistry

Abstract

Dentists are in a strategic position to recognize mistreated children. While the detection of dental care neglect is an obvious responsibility for dentists, other types of child abuse and neglect also may present themselves in the dental office. the characteristics and diagnostic findings of physical abuse (nonaccidental trauma), sexual abuse, failure to thrive (nutritional neglect), intentional drugging or poisoning, Munchausen’s syndrome by proxy, health care neglect, safety neglect, emotional abuse, and physical neglect all should be familiar to the dentist. Once this information is known to the dentist, he

Health care providers (including dentists) are mandated to report suspected cases of abuse and neglect to social service or law enforcement agencies. Oral health issuescan also be associated with bullying and are commonly seen in human trafficking victims. Some medical providers may receive less educationpertaining to oral health and dental injury and disease and may not detect the mouth and gum findings that are related to abuse or neglectas readily as they detect those involving other areas of the body. Therefore, pediatric care providers and dental providers are encouraged tocollaborate to increase the prevention, detection, and treatment of these conditions in children.