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Published on: December 31, 2017
Oral health burden in children with systemic diseases
1Pediatric Dentistry, The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
Insights
Children with systemic diseases experience a greater health burden, impacting both the child and family. Addressing oral health is crucial to prevent further illness and family distress.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Systemic Diseases
- Oral Health
Background:
- Children with systemic diseases face significant health challenges beyond their primary condition.
- Neglecting these challenges can lead to increased child morbidity and family dysfunction.
- Oral health is a critical, often overlooked, aspect of care for these children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the oral health burden in children with systemic diseases.
- To highlight the impact on both the child and their family unit.
- To identify key areas for intervention and support.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on systemic diseases in children.
- Analysis of the role of the parent as caregiver.
- Examination of specific conditions including cerebral palsy, juvenile arthritis, developmental delay, and organ diseases.
Main Results:
- Children with systemic conditions exhibit a disproportionately high oral health burden.
- Caregiver involvement is pivotal in managing oral health outcomes.
- Specific diseases like cerebral palsy and juvenile arthritis present unique oral health challenges.
Conclusions:
- Integrated oral health strategies are essential for children with systemic diseases.
- Support for caregivers is vital for improving child health outcomes.
- Further research is needed to optimize oral care protocols for this vulnerable population.
Abstract:
Children who have systemic diseases face a burden of disease distinctly greater than their healthy counterparts. Neglect or delay of addressing this burden can lead not only to significant morbidity for the child, but also to family dysfunction. This article addresses issues salient to the understanding of oral health burden in children and families living with systemic disease. Topics include the parent as caregiver, children who have cerebral palsy, juvenile arthritis, developmental delay, and organ diseases.
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