Abstract

ANDRADE, Ana Paula Paiva de  and  ELEUTEIO, Adriana Silveira de Lima. Patients with special needs: dental approach and general anesthesia. Rev. Bras. Odontol. [online]. 2015, vol.72, n.1-2, pp. 66-69. ISSN 1984-3747.

Individuals with special needs are mentioned in history for many centuries. Currently in Brazil, there are isolated groups who provide dental care to these patients. Based on the literature, the objective of this work is to enable the dentist a better understanding of dental care to patients with special needs - especially to people with Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy and audiovisual disabilities - and the need for general anesthesia. It was concluded that, before starting dental care to this population, it is essential to have a comprehensive and complete view of the particular patient; recognizing the etiology of disabilities and provide high levels of oral health, dignity and quality of life.

Keywords : Dental care; general anesthesia; patients with special needs; oral health..