ORAL HEALTH IN “SPECIAL-NEEDS” PATIENTS: THE UNIVERSITY OF MILANO BICOCCA DENTAL CLINIC EXPERIENCE

To understand dentistry for special-need patients, it is crucial to define the population and its complex characteristics. Historically, "disability" had a negative connotation, indicating physical or mental impairments, and led to social marginalization. The WHO's 2001 International Classification on Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) introduced a more inclusive definition, considering environmental and socio-cultural factors. This shift emphasizes that disability results from both individual conditions and societal influences. The concept of inclusion has evolved, advocating for societal changes to accommodate individuals with special needs. Special-need, disabled, and fragile individuals share greater socio-health vulnerabilities, requiring tailored healthcare services and protocols. The Authors present a clinical protocol and an epidemiological analysis of the patients who presented at the Clinical Center for the Care of Special-need Patients of IRCCS San Gerardo Hospital in Monza, Italy.