Dental care for children with special needs in the UAE: perception of barriers and the gap between dentists’ preparedness and clinical competence

A study by specialists from Dubai revealed that the level of preparedness of general dental practices for treating children with disabilities remains insufficient, despite significant motivation among dentists to improve their competencies. Although barriers to access to dental care for children with special healthcare needs are well documented in global practice, data from the perspective of general dental practitioners in the United Arab Emirates remain limited. Researchers from Dubai analyzed how practicing dentists perceive these barriers and assessed their readiness to provide specialized care.

Key study findings

The survey covered practicing dentists throughout the UAE to identify barriers in treating children with special healthcare needs. The analysis examined the level of training at the educational stage, confidence in managing patient behavior and medical emergencies, clinic accessibility, availability of equipment, awareness of regulatory frameworks, and interest in professional development.

Identified barriers to dental care provision

The most frequently mentioned barriers were patient behavior problems and insufficient dentist training. Communication difficulties, as well as deficiencies in infrastructure and qualified personnel, were also regularly cited by respondents. Although most noted the physical accessibility of clinics, more than half reported the lack of necessary equipment — a paradox indicating that physical access alone is insufficient for adequate care provision.

Differences in competence across different types of disorders

Behavioral and emotional disorders were encountered most frequently; however, dentists felt more confident when treating children with physical disabilities. They demonstrated the greatest competence in conducting preventive examinations, oral hygiene education, and emergency care, but were less prepared for complex interventions.

The gap between intention and clinical readiness

More than three-quarters of respondents supported the inclusion of the discipline “Dentistry for patients with special needs” in training programs — both in theoretical and clinical components. The majority expressed interest in additional training. However, self-assessed confidence in treatment and management of medical complications remained at a moderate level, indicating the need for more structured education.

Recommendations for improving dentist training

The study authors emphasized that in the context of the UAE, the preparedness of the dental workforce is a key modifiable factor. Training programs should emphasize fundamental competencies: disability awareness, communication strategies, preventive care, behavioral management, adaptation of treatment conditions, readiness for emergency situations, and decision-making regarding referral to specialists. The goal should be to prepare dentists to provide routine and preventive care, recognize the need for adaptations, and timely refer complex cases to specialized institutions.

Source

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