Slipping through the cracks. Dental care for older persons with intellectual disabilities

An increasing population of men and women with intellectual disabilities and other developmental disabilities is reaching older ages. As our country continues the process of deinstitutionalization, these individuals will require treatment in communities. Dental practitioners increasingly will be involved in the needs of this population, many of whom are members of families being treated in private dental practices. A review of these developments and the particular dental needs of these patients is considered.