The aim of this study was to identify and analyze possible relationship between learning disabilities and dental self-care. Sixty third and fourth grades students from a Public Elementary School were divided in two groups: with (group 1) and without (group 2) learning disabilities. They were individually tested, went on the verification of dental biofilm before and after tooth brushing, and interviewed about dental self-care. The data were submitted to a statistical treatment: the content analysis of the verbal report and the functional analysis of tooth brushing behavior. There were significant differences between the groups - about time for brushing the teeth, which was minor for the students of group 1. These students also have less self-rules to control tooth brushing, less precise information about cavities and also they are more punished by their parents for avoiding brushing their teeth. Interdisciplinary studies about Psychology and Dentistry are convenient for developing more efficacious programs in oral health.
dental treatment; learning disabilities; oral health
