Oral Health Status of Adolescents with Sickle Cell Disease

Objectives: The objectives of this pilot study were to determine the Oral Health Quality of Life as well as the prevalence of caries and gingivitis in adolescents with sickle cell disease. Methods: 35 subjects were randomly recruited from the Sickle Cell Clinic at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio. The presence of caries and gingivitis were evaluated during a clinical oral exam performed by a single examiner. Subjects also completed the 38 question Child Oral Health Impact Profile survey to assess oral health quality of life. Results: The mean age of participants was 14 years (Range 11-19 years old). The results of clinical examination showed that 4% of participants had clinically evident gingivitis and 67% had caries experience. 38% reported a history of dental pain within the past three months. More than half (58%) reported overall their oral health was good or excellent, and only 13% reported their oral health was fair or poor. 29% reported that they had bleeding gums. 26% reported that they had missed school because of their teeth, mouth, or face. 15% avoided smiling or laughing because of teeth, mouth, or face. 39% agreed or strongly agreed that they were nervous about dental treatment. Conclusions: Sickle cell patients appear to have a high caries experience, therefore strong preventative efforts should be directed at this population. Oral health counseling and establishment of a dental home should be included in the protocol of care for these patients very early in their development.