The self
-
reported number of teeth among adults with learning disabilities in Sheffield is similar
to that reported
by adults in the genera
l population
in Sheffield.
Lower numbers of adults with learning disabilities are wearing dentures.
People with learning disabilities reported poorer overall oral health although specific impacts
of
pain,
discomfort
when
eating
,
and self
-
consciousness
,
wer
e similar
to
or of lower frequency
to existing surveys.
The reasons for visiting a dentist were similar to surveys
of the general population
. However,
reasons for difficulty with getting dental care varied with dental anxiety and transport problems
being m
ore prevalent for people with learning disabilities.
Transitions between children and adult services were highlighted as being problematic.
There were more issues regarding access to care for people with more profound impairments