Navigating Barriers: A Systematic Review on Access to Dental Care for Individuals with Disabilities

Objective:
The primary aim of this systematic review was to investigate the factors that influence access to oral health services and to identify and scrutinize strategies aimed at enhancing accessibility.

Materials and Methods:
A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. Studies, excluding editorials, reported in English were included, irrespective of their study design. Risk of Bias assessment utilized the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Newcastle Ottawa Scale, and The Joanna Briggs Institute tool for cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, and qualitative studies.

Results:
A total of 11,372 records were initially identified, culminating in the inclusion of 12 relevant publications in the review. Participants expressed a high value for oral health but faced challenges in accessing oral health services. Dental care was primarily sought during emergencies, and individuals harbored reservations about visiting dentists. Additionally, perspectives from caregivers and dentists were reported.

Conclusion:
To enhance access to oral health services, there is a crucial need for educational initiatives, training programs, and heightened awareness campaigns focusing on dental hygiene and the importance of annual dental checkups.