Oral health experiences of people with learning disabilities in Sheffield

Objective: The aim of this study was to represent the voices of people with learning disabilities whilst exploring their experiences and perceptions of dental services in the Sheffield area.

Methods: this ethnographic study used a mixture of focus groups and one-to-one interviews with a purposive sample of 31 adults with mild to profound learning disabilities. Data were analysed using inductive thematic narrative analysis using the social model of disability as a lens through which to view data.

Results: Two main themes of access and knowledge were highlighted. For those experiencing difficulties with access, barriers included a lack of transport, the availability and type of services enabling choice and inclusion, affordability, difficulty obtaining appointments and bureaucracy in referral, and a lack of support for families and carers. A good level of functional health literacy was displayed but further development was hampered by the lack of a supportive environment for some people with learning disabilities. People with learning disabilities valued the interpersonal communication skills of dentists.

Conclusions: This was the first study to involve people with learning disabilities in identifying areas for the development of dental services. Whilst a range of experiences was described, difficulties with access, the inconsistent availability of certain types of treatment and the lack of continuous care were highlighted as areas for improvement by people with learning disabilities.