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Oral Health Management in Pediatric Surgical Inpatients: Development of Clinical Protocols Based on a Prospective
Claudia Capurro1, Giulia Telini1, Giulia Romanelli1
1Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, 16147 Genoa, Italy.
Dentistry Journal
|April 27, 2026
Summary
Hospitalization for pediatric surgery often leads to poorer oral hygiene and increased plaque. Developing standardized oral care protocols can improve children's oral health during hospital stays.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric medicine
- Oral health research
- Hospital-based interventions
Background:
- Oral health is integral to overall health, especially for pediatric surgical patients.
- Hospitalization can negatively impact children's oral hygiene and diet.
- Deterioration of oral health is a risk during pediatric surgical stays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in oral health status, hygiene, and diet in hospitalized pediatric surgical patients.
- To develop a standardized oral care protocol for this population.
- To identify opportunities for improving oral health during hospitalization.
Main Methods:
- Prospective observational study of 118 children (0-17 years) hospitalized for surgery.
- Clinical oral examinations and caregiver questionnaires at admission and discharge.
- Assessment of oral health, plaque, gingival condition, pain, hygiene behaviors, and diet.
Main Results:
- Significant increase in plaque accumulation and worsening oral hygiene practices observed.
- Dietary changes included fewer meals and reduced intake of cariogenic foods.
- Oral hygiene care documentation was minimal (2.5% of patients).
Conclusions:
- Pediatric surgical hospitalization is linked to declining oral hygiene and increased plaque.
- Standardized protocols and oral health education can enhance patient oral health.
- Hospitalization can be leveraged to improve children's oral health outcomes.
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