Oral health of individuals with disabilities in Islamic tradition, Case study: the Islamic Republic of Iran

The word “disability” can not be found within the Qur’an or Hadiths, but the concept of Muslims having inabilities or special needs and how they interacted in society can be found throughout the history of Islam. To consider general Islamic societal attitudes regarding individuals with disabilities; with emphasis on the Islamic Republic of Iran. The limitations of services, in particular, oral health care, for this population are presented in an effort to develop an awareness of the necessity to extend needed care. The Pub Med computer search engine was used to review background reports on Islamic traditions regarding individuals with disabilities, as well as the specific conditions in the Islamic Republic of Iran. The belief of Muslims is that individuals are created with different abilities and disabilities with the objective for a Muslim to focus on their abilities and show gratefulness rather than focus on the disability. However, reports indicate that there are many difficulties faced by these individuals, including limitations in securing needed for oral health services. In line with the basics of Islamic beliefs, attention is required to provide for the oral health need of individuals with disabilities