Does poor oral health impact on young children's development? A rapid review

Background The extent to which poor oral health in young children impacts developmental milestones is unclear.Aim To review the evidence of association between poor oral health and development of young children (0-5 years).Method A rapid review was conducted. Medline was searched for articles in English published from 2000 onwards. The outcomes considered were the impact of poor oral health on speech and language development, oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL), school performance and attendance.Results In total, 15 studies were included: four systematic reviews, a critical review and 10 primary studies. All data were from observational or cross-sectional studies. Premature extraction of primary maxillary incisors was associated with change in speech sounds and articulation. Two primary studies found associations between early childhood caries and physical and psychomotor deficiencies, while acknowledging a web of causation with other factors, including socioeconomic status. Children with dental caries reported lower OHRQoL. Studies found caries experience was associated with preschool absenteeism.Conclusion Poor oral health in young children appears to be associated with speech and language development, OHRQoL, and school attendance and performance. However, there are significant limitations in the existing evidence, with further high-quality, observational, longitudinal research required to fully understand the impact of poor oral health on the development of young children. Strategies to improve oral health by health and education professionals are needed to ensure young children reach their potential.