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Child refugees and asylum seekers: oral health and its place in the UK system

British Dental Journal volume 228, pages 44–49 (2020)Cite this article

Abstract

Introduction The aim of this article is to provide a summary of the oral health status of child refugees and asylum seekers, and to describe their access to health services in the UK.

Methods and analysis A review of the asylum process in the UK, the oral health status of child asylum seekers and the challenges in accessing dental services has been conducted.

Conclusion There is limited data on the oral health status of child asylum seekers. Further research is required to estimate the burden of dental diseases and related conditions among this vulnerable population. Dental professionals can contribute to the holistic care of children with a sensitive and informed approach.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Dental Core Trainee 3 in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Prince Charles Hospital, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board, Merthyr Tydfil, CF47 9DT, UK

    A. V. L. Fennell-Wells

  2. Senior Clinical Lecturer and Consultant in Dental Public Health, Queen Mary University of London, Dental Institute, Centre for Dental Public Health and Primary Care, Turner Street, London, E1 2AD, UK

    H. Yusuf

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Correspondence to A. V. L. Fennell-Wells.

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Fennell-Wells, A., Yusuf, H. Child refugees and asylum seekers: oral health and its place in the UK system. Br Dent J 228, 44–49 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-019-1099-4

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