Oral Health in Young People Accessing Services for Psychosis: A Retrospective Analysis

Objectives

To explore the oral health status and uptake of a free on-site professional check-up in young people with first-episode psychosis or with an at-risk mental state engaged with mental health services in Sydney, Australia.

Method

A retrospective analysis of a two-stage quality improvement project was undertaken. First, a 26-item survey was administered to young people engaged with the Early Psychosis and Youth (At-Risk Mental State) services. The survey was adapted from the NSW Teen Dental Survey 2010, modified to suit the needs of this population group. Survey responses were compared against national recommendations where possible. Second, people were offered a free, on-site, oral health check-up conducted by an oral health hygienist. Check-ups were scored into seven categories, ranging from ‘does not appear to require routine treatment’ to ‘needs urgent dental treatment’.

Results

Fifty young people completed the survey, of whom 70% met the Australian Dental Association recommendations for frequency of teeth brushing, 56% for brushing duration, and 16% for flossing. Fifty percent reported visiting a dentist at least once per year, and 30% reported that they do not visit the dentist. Twenty-seven people agreed to a dental check-up, with 16 participants attending, and of these, 44% were recommended for dental treatment or further assessment to determine treatment needs.

Conclusion

Young people with first-episode psychosis or with an at-risk mental state frequently report suboptimal oral health practices and may benefit from dental support to prevent the high rates of dental disease that occur in more advanced mental illness.