Periodontal treatment needs and oral hygiene for institutionalized individuals with handicapping conditions.

SUMMARY Forty-five patients aged 3 to 22 who have handicapping conditions were examined to determine their oral hygiene leveis and periodontal treatment needs. This study shows that oral hygiene leveis for males and the older population were higher. Periodontal treatment needs were highly correlated to oral hygiene, and were much higher for males and older age groups. Various aspects were discussed and it was concluded that primary prevention is an immediate, although a partial solution. However, new aids and antibacterial solutions should be further investigated in this population to simplify plaque removal.