The parents voice on oral health care from two paediatric oncology units

Oral complications, such as oral mucositis, are amongst the most frequent side effects of antineoplastic therapy, particularly in children. Maintaining adequate oral care and managing oral mucositis can be challenging. Parents are required to support their child during cancer treatment but often lack confidence and knowledge. The present study aims to determine whether parents received information on oral hygiene instructions during their child's cancer treatment and to assess the provision of oral care before, and after cancer diagnosis.

A cross-sectional observational study was performed. A questionnaire was applied to a convenience sample of parents of children diagnosed with cancer, at two Paediatric Oncology Units in the North of Portugal.

A total of 166 parents participated (IPO-Porto: 104; CHUSJ: 62). Approximately 58% (n = 96) of the children had regular dental examinations before cancer diagnosis; 87% (n = 144) of the parents were informed about potential oral complications before cancer treatment and 85% (n = 141) of the children presented oral complications during and after treatment particularly mouth ulcers/thrush (88% in both hospitals). During cancer treatment, 60% of children from IPO-Porto and 49% from CHUSJ brushed their teeth twice a day. Most parents highly valued the role of dentists as integral members of the multidisciplinary medical team supporting their children during cancer treatment.

The present findings highlight that oral care instructions provided to parents during cancer treatment were insufficient at both Paediatric Oncology Units, although parental engagement was high. Reported dental care before and after diagnosis was below recommended clinical guidelines.