[Oral health in young adults with a mild intellectual disability and multiple problems]

More than 1.1 million people in the Netherlands have a mild intellectual disability (MID). They are relatively more likely to have poor oral health. The aim of this study was to investigate the oral health of MID young adults with multiple problems (such as addiction). A questionnaire was administered orally to 76 inpatient clients of the Salvation Army in Amsterdam and intraoral examinations were also performed. The research group consisted of young adults with MID and additional multi-problems. The collected data was compared with a reference group (Dutch young adults with a low socio-economic status). The results suggest that oral hygiene is poor in this population, and that a more internal locus of control is associated with a higher caries index. The findings of this study emphasize the importance of professional oral care in young adults with MID given poor oral hygiene and treatment delays. A tailor-made approach with more flexibility in treatment is essential to provide young adults with MID the right oral care.