People with learning disability have the right to be valued and supported as equal citizens, including the right to access equitable health care. Although there is evidence that they generally experienced poorer health and oral health in particular.
Given the importance of oral health care, the Kerry Parents and Friends Association undertook an action research approach to review the oral health of people with learning disability.
Initially, an oral assessment of those using the service was undertaken by the Health Service Executive (HSE) dental services (Southern Region).
A total of 38 people needed some form of treatment after examination.
While it is clear that clinical guidelines on oral health care should be included in practice settings, a study in Ireland identified that only 12% of service areas had written oral healthcare guidelines in place (Crowley et al 2003).
In light of this the development of the guidelines was undertaken by the community RNID within the Kerry Parents and Friends Association.
The clinical guidelines for the oral health care of adults with an intellectual disability were completed in May 2008 and focused on the improvement of oral health care within an integrated care approach.
Positive feedback from the HSE dental services indicated that the guidelines will improve the general and oral health of individuals attending the service.