What Presenting Problems Suggest Possible Child Maltreatment?

Craniofacial, head, face, and neck injuries occur in more than half of child abuse cases.⁷ Oral trauma, caries, gingivitis and other oral health problems are more prevalent in maltreated children than in the general pediatric population. A dental professional must therefore be able to identify and address physical and behavioral manifestations that suggest possible abuse and/or neglect. The following is an outline of possible signs and symptoms of physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological/emotional abuse, and neglect.