This article aims to review the various forms of child abuse and neglect and its management in dental settings. Health, education and social services are placing increasing emphasis on preventing abuse and neglect by early intervention to support families where children and young adults may be at risk. The importance of an early recognition is based on the effective intervention. All members of dental team have a unique opportunity and ethical obligation to assist in identifying and reporting child abuse. They should be aware of the warning signs, recognizing what to consider as abuse or dental neglect and know how to deal with such cases. However, oral health professionals may not detect dental aspects of abuse or neglect, as readily as they do with symptoms and signs involving oral health and dental injury and disease. Therefore, dentists are encouraged to collaborate to increase the prevention, detection and treatment of these conditions.

Key words: Child abuse; Dental team; Dental neglect; Forensic odontology.