Oral and Dental Aspects of Child Abuse and Neglect: A collaborative effort of the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

In all states, physicians and dentists recognize their responsibility to report suspected cases of abuse and neglect. The purpose of this statement is to review the oral and dental aspects of physical and sexual abuse and dental neglect and the role of physicians and dentists in evaluating such conditions. The statement also addresses the oral manifestations of sexually transmitted diseases and bite marks, including the collection of evidence and laboratory documentation of these injuries. In all 50 states, physicians and dentists are required to report suspected cases of child abuse and neglect to social service or law enforcement agencies.^1-4 Physicians receive minimal training in oral health and dental injury and disease, and thus may not detect dental aspects of abuse or neglect as readily as they do child abuse and neglect involving other areas of the body. Therefore, physicians and dentists should collaborate to increase the prevention, detection, and treatment of these conditions.