Individuals with SHCN may be at an increased risk for
oral diseases throughout their lifetime.2,4-6 Oral diseases can
have a direct and devastating impact on the health and quality
of life of those with certain systemic health problems or conditions. Patients with compromised immunity (eg, leukemia or other malignancies, human immunodeficiency virus) or cardiac conditions associated with endocarditis may be especially vulnerable to the effects of oral diseases.7 Patients with mental, developmental, or physical disabilities who do not have the abil-
ity to understand, assume responsibility for, or cooperate with preventive oral health practices are susceptible as well.8 Oral
health is an inseparable part of general health and well-being.