A new series of resources have been developed aimed at improving the oral health of individuals with special healthcare needs.

The range of infographics and e-learning modules have been developed by the international educator and publisher Wiley in collaboration with a panel of experts and the International Association for Disability and Oral Health (IADH).

The materials provide a snapshot of the specific characteristics of oral health in these groups, the current state of oral healthcare, and the latest evidence-based guidance on how to improve their oral health.

Around 16 million people in the United Kingdom have a disability. This represents 24% of the total population. Around one in ten people with a disability have complex needs.

The three e-learning modules take under 30 minutes to complete and are supplemented with videos, infographics, patient case studies, and a list of peer-reviewed research articles. Upon completion, healthcare professionals will receive a downloadable certificate.

Healthcare professionals are encouraged to use these resources in their practice and share them with their colleagues.

Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation, said: ‘Oral health is a key component of overall health and well-being. Patients with disabilities often face barriers with self-care, find it more difficult accessing dental care and report poorer experiences during a dental visit, compared to the general population. These resources are crucial in hel** healthcare professionals overcome these challenges and provide optimal care.'

The materials cover advice for improving oral health in individuals with physical impairments, intellectual and developmental disabilities and those with special healthcare needs.

Resources for the patient and caregiver have also been created.

The resources are available at https://oralhealth.knowledgehub.wiley.com/special-healthcare-needs/.