FACTORS INFLUENCING THE ACCESSIBILITY OF DENTAL CARE FOR CHILDREN WITH CEREBRAL PALSY

Relevance. Oral health is closely linked to overall health status. Children with cerebral palsy have an increased risk of dental diseases due to motor, cognitive, and behavioral characteristics, which negatively affect their quality of life. Despite the importance of timely dental care, its accessibility is often limited by clinical, organizational, and educational factors.

The aim. To analyze factors influencing the accessibility and organization of dental care for children with cerebral palsy, with an assessment of the role of professional training of specialists and organizational-system conditions as key determinants of the quality of dental care.

Materials and Methods. An analytical review of scientific publications, clinical guidelines, and regulatory documents was conducted. The literature was searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The analysis was performed using a descriptive synthesis with thematic systematization of factors affecting dental care accessibility.

Results. A combination of individual professional readiness of specialists and organizational-system conditions determines the accessibility of dental care for children with cerebral palsy. Insufficient knowledge and clinical experience of dentists, limited infrastructure, inadequate equipment of healthcare facilities, weak implementation of interdisciplinary approaches, and organizational barriers reduce actual access to care even when financial coverage is available. Adaptation of dental appointments, development of interdisciplinary teamwork, and expansion of educational programs are particularly important.

Conclusion. Ensuring accessible, high-quality dental care for children with cerebral palsy requires a comprehensive approach that includes improving specialist training, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, enhancing infrastructure, and establishing clear standards of care. Even with affordable prices, access to dental care may be limited by staffing, organizational, and resource-related factors.

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