Association Between Oral Health Problems and Food Insufficiency Among Children With Developmental Delays

Children with developmental delays face significant health challenges, including oral health problems, that disrupt dietary habits and contribute to food insufficiency.

To examine the association between oral health problems and food insufficiency among children with developmental delays.

Cross-sectional design using the 2022 National Survey of Children's Health database.

National survey.

Participants were 1,483 children ages 3-17 yr with developmental delays.

Food insufficiency was rated on a 4-point scale and oral health problems as problem present versus no problem. The ordinal logistic regression models were adjusted for child, health, and socioeconomic variables.

Among participants, 26.2% had oral health problems. Oral health problems were significantly associated with food insufficiency (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.72, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.14, 2.60]). Poor maternal mental health (AOR = 4.14, 95% CI [2.24, 7.68]) and low-income households (AOR = 9.82, 95% CI [5.00, 19.36]) were strongly associated with food insufficiency.

Findings demonstrate that oral health problems, maternal mental health, and socioeconomic disparities are interrelated determinants of food insufficiency among children with developmental delays. Occupational therapists can address these issues through caregiver training and advocacy to enhance access to oral health and nutritional resources. Plain-Language Summary: Children with developmental delays frequently experience oral health issues, such as cavities and chewing difficulties, which are linked with poor nutrition and food insufficiency. Using national survey data, this study examined associations among oral health problems, maternal mental health, and family income in relation to food insufficiency. Findings indicate that food insufficiency was more often reported when children had oral health problems, particularly among families with low income or mothers with poor mental health. These results highlight the need for accessible dental care, caregiver support, and food assistance programs. Occupational therapists can support families by promoting oral health strategies, stress management, and resource connections to strengthen food sufficiency and overall health.