Evaluating the population with intellectual disability unable to comply with routine dental treatment using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health

Abstract

Purpose. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of general anaesthesia (GA) among patients with intellectual disability (ID) in relation to the International Classification of Functioning (ICF).

Method. Twenty-seven ICF codes related to the tolerance of the dental treatment were chosen. The sample consisted of 100 children with ID divided into two groups (50 patients in whom routine dental treatment had been accomplished and 50 patients who had been treated under GA). Differences between the groups were analysed using the chi-square test, bivariate correlation and multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results. The GA group showed higher levels with regard to the following codes: b117 – intellectual function, b2801 – pain in head and neck, d310 – communication, d530 – toileting, d540 – dressing, e310 – immediate family, e5400 – transportation services and e5850 – education and training services. The severity of ID significantly correlated with the ‘Activities and Participation’ codes. Three predictors of GA treatment were identified: ‘Pain in head and neck’ (p  <  0.001), ‘Transportation services, systems and policies’ (p  <  0.05) and ‘Education and training services, systems and policies’ (p  <  0.05).

Conclusions. The use of GA increases with the severity of ID. Acute and painful conditions result in more frequent use of GA. Unfavourable environmental factors present barrier to routine dental management.

Keywords:

• Intellectual disability
• dental treatment
• general anaesthesia

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.