Brushing teeth at least twice daily and flossing are widely accepted as the most effective means to good oral health. But for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, sometimes having the right type of toothbrush, or being able to afford a toothbrush on a limited income can make this simple task a big challenge.
But, with a grant of 2,500 oral health kits from the Delta Dental of Kansas Foundation, children and adults in the Sedgwick County Developmental Disability Organization (SCDDO) service system will get their choice of a specialized toothbrush (electric, adaptive, or flossing). Each person will have the opportunity to select a toothbrush that best meets the needs of their disability, whether it is dexterity issues or the dependence on a care provider to brush their teeth. They will also receive educational information about oral health prevention and care. The Community Dental Health Grant to SCDDO is valued at more than $11,200.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) state that untreated tooth decay affects more than one-third of all adults. The CDC also suggests that children should brush at least twice a day. Dental health-related treatments from 2012 to 2013 for SCDDO clients were more than $33,500; many may have been avoided or reduced with preventive care.
“We know that our consumers with developmental disabilities have both challenges in brushing their teeth or being able to afford a toothbrush on a limited income,” said Dee Staudt, SCDDO Director. “This grant helps us to better meet their oral health needs with specialized toothbrushes, which in turn positively affects their overall health.”