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Gingival evaluation of the pediatric cardiac patient
Erez Nosrati1, George J Eckert, Michael J Kowolik
1private practice, Chicago, USA; Midwestern University, College of Dental Medicine, Downers Grove, Ill, USA.
Insights
Children with congenital cardiovascular diseases (CCDs) show significantly higher rates of periodontal disease, including gingivitis and plaque. Regular dental check-ups are crucial for these children to improve cardiovascular health and prevent endocarditis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Periodontology
- Oral Health
Background:
- Congenital cardiovascular diseases (CCDs) increase risks for dental issues like infective endocarditis.
- Oral inflammatory conditions may worsen cardiovascular disease severity in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the gingival health status of children with CCDs against healthy children.
- To assess the prevalence of gingivitis, plaque, calculus, and recession in pediatric CCD patients.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 50 children (7–13 years old) was studied.
- 25 children with CCDs (ventricular septal defect, aortic valve stenosis, coarctation of the aorta) formed the test group.
- 25 age- and gender-matched healthy children served as the control group. Gingival health was assessed using standard periodontal indices.
Main Results:
- Children with CCDs exhibited significantly higher prevalence of gingivitis (P<.001), plaque (P<.001), recession (P>.02), and calculus (P<.001) compared to controls.
- No significant differences in gingivitis, plaque, or recession were observed among the different CCD subgroups.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric patients with CCDs demonstrate a greater incidence of periodontal disease.
- Periodontal evaluation and monitoring every 3 months are recommended for children with CCDs.
- Improved oral health in these children can enhance cardiovascular condition, prevent endocarditis, and improve life quality and longevity.
Purpose:
Children with congenital cardiovascular diseases (CCDs) who suffer from dental diseases have an increased risk of infective endocarditis. In the light of recent evidence, oral inflammatory diseases may also increase the severity of their cardiovascular condition. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the gingival status of children with congenital cardiovascular diseases in comparison to healthy children.
Methods:
Fifty 7- to 13-year-old children were included. The test group comprised 25 CCD children subdivided into three groups: (1) unrepaired ventricular septal defect; (2) aortic valve stenosis; and (3) coarctation of the aorta. The control group consisted of 25 healthy age- and gender-matched children. Gingivitis, plaque, calculus, and recession were measured on six sites per tooth on 12 teeth.
Results:
CCD children had significantly more gingivitis (P<.001), plaque (P<.001), recession (P>.02), and calculus (P<.001) than controls. Among the CCDs groups, no statistically significant differences were found for gingivitis, plaque, or recession.
Conclusions:
Children with congenital cardiovascular diseases had a higher prevalence of periodontal disease, evidenced by gingivitis, plaque, calculus, and recession. These children should be evaluated periodontally and their oral health monitored on a 3-month basis to prevent disease development, benefit cardiovascular condition, prevent endocarditis, and improve quality and longevity of life.
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