Due to oral-motor dysfunction, drooling is common in children with CP. Drooling can lead to irritated, chapped skin, impaired oral performance, difficulty with feeding and swallowing, upper respiratory congestion and even aspiration Taking foreign matter such as vomit into the lungs when breathing or inhaling.. In addition to the medical consequences, persistent drooling beyond infancy can cause significant social problems. Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists can work with children to strengthen muscles and decrease drooling. Medications and surgical interventions are also available and used to control the amount of excess saliva. Specialists should advise families about these treatment options.
Some simple strategies for the preschool classroom is to place a sport wrist band on the child's wrist so that he or she can wipe his or her mouth occasionally. This wrist band should be replaced at least 2 or 3 times a day to prevent odor that may further socially isolate the child.
Children with cerebral palsy are at greater risk for dental problems than children without developmental disabilities due to difficulty chewing and swallowing. Food particles may be retained in the mouth, contributing to tooth decay, resulting in an increased incidence of dental caries.
It is important to aid the child in brushing his or her teeth daily. An adaptive toothbrush or specialized techniques for oral care may be needed to be successful in maintaining good oral hygiene for a child with CP. If the child is using an adaptive toothbrush at home, see if you can find a similar one for use in the preschool classroom.
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