Oral Health Status and Caries Experience in Children Diagnosed with Attention-deficit Hyperactive Disorder

Aim: The present study aimed to assess and evaluate oral hygiene status and oral hygiene behaviors among children with the attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) and children without ADHD. Materials and methods: A total of 34 children of ages 6–14 years were included in the study. Groups I–17 children with ADHD and group II–17 healthy children. A visual examination of dental caries and traumatic injuries was performed, and the oral hygiene status of these children was determined. The parent/guardian completed a structured questionnaire regarding the child’s oral hygiene practices and food habits. Data obtained from oral examination and questionnaires were compiled and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The student t-test and the Chi-squared test showed that children with ADHD had significantly higher decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) scores and incidence of traumatic injuries without significant difference in oral hygiene status. Conclusion: There is no significant difference in oral hygiene status between both the groups but caries experience, and incidence of traumatic injuries are high in children with ADHD.