358 - Dental Care for CSHN through School-Based Programs: Before and After COVID-19

Purpose: This study evaluates access to dental care and oral health status for elementary school children with special healthcare needs(CSHN) treated in school-based dental programs. Variables assessed include communication barriers, sensory sensitivities, parental perceived barriers, as well as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A retrospective chart review was carried out to compare patients with and without special health care needs enrolled and treated in two school-based dental programs overseen by New York University College of Dentistry's Bringing Smiles Comprehensive Care (BSCC) program. The study population consisted of children 5-13 years old who enrolled in the BSCC program from September 1, 2018 to December 31, 2021. The following de-identified information was extrapolated and reviewed: demographics, enrollment years, re-enrollment status, parental perceived barriers, the impact of COVID-19, SHN diagnoses, and oral health status at the start of each school year.

Results: CSHN were found to have a lower presence of caries at the initial visit in comparison to children without special healthcare needs (p < 0.001). Seventy-two percent of CSHN did not seek dental treatment while the BSCC program was at a halt as result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This was greater but was not statistically different when compared to children without special health care needs. Eighty-three percent of CSHN only had to contact one dentist. Most parents reported that they had to wait greater than 7 days for an appointment. Sixty-five percent of CSHN have sensory differences and 49% are non-verbal.