Oral health promotion for children with disabilities in the Republic of Ireland: Independent qualitative evaluation of a multi-sectoral oral health promotion intervention for children with disabilities

Children with disabilities are a marginalized group in relation to health in the Republic of Ireland, and oral health is frequently relegated to a position of little or no importance by parents, paid carers, and non-dental professionals. Subsequently, there is often a higher need for treatment and inpatient procedures that could be prevented. Introducing a health promotion intervention which aimed to reduce the need for dental treatment was envisioned as being the way forward. A qualitative evaluation of the context for implementation highlighted barriers in achieving the aims of the plan.