The impact of child abuse to the dentocraniofacial growth in children

The community has become increasingly aware of child abuse in society. Child abuse is the non accidental physical injuries which are within the scope of dentistry or easily observed by dental professional in the course of routine dental treatment. This paper will discuss the importance of an early recognition by dental practioners because a high proportion of abused children suffer injuries to the face and head, including the oral and perioral region which could have an impact to dento-craniofacial growth and development in children. In conclusion the ability to properly identify suspicious injuries to head, face, mouth and neck, of a child is imperative for dental practioners.