Ovidental Editorial Team
hola@ovidentalgo.com
Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition affecting millions of children globally.
Beyond its respiratory implications, asthma and its treatments can significantly impact oral health.
Understanding these effects is crucial for implementing preventive measures to ensure optimal oral health in asthmatic children.
Key Oral Health Consequences in Asthmatic Children
1. Dental Caries
Children with asthma have a higher incidence of dental caries. This is attributed to factors such as reduced salivary flow and the acidic pH of certain inhaled medications, which promote the growth of cariogenic bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus.
2. Periodontal Disease
Asthmatic children are more susceptible to gingivitis and periodontitis. Mouth breathing, common in these patients, can lead to oral mucosa dryness, increasing the risk of infections and gingival inflammation.
3. Oral Candidiasis
Prolonged use of inhaled corticosteroids can disrupt the oral microbiota and reduce local immunity, facilitating fungal infections such as Candida albicans.
4. Dental Erosion
The use of certain asthma medications, especially dry powder inhalers with low pH, can contribute to dental erosion. Additionally, gastroesophageal reflux, more prevalent in asthmatic patients, can exacerbate enamel demineralization.
Preventive Measures to Protect Oral Health in Asthmatic Children
- Diligent Oral Hygiene
Encourage brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and regular flossing to remove plaque and reduce the risk of caries and periodontal diseases.
- Mouth Rinsing After Inhaler Use
Advise children to rinse their mouths with water after using inhaled medications to eliminate drug residues and minimize adverse effects on the oral cavity.
- Use of Spacer Devices
These devices can decrease the deposition of medication in the oral cavity, reducing the risk of oral candidiasis and other complications.
- Regular Dental Check-ups
Schedule periodic dental visits for early detection of oral issues and the application of preventive treatments like sealants or topical fluoride applications.
- Education and Awareness
Educate both parents and children about the importance of oral health and the potential complications associated with asthma and its treatment.
► Read also: Listerine and the lawsuit linking it to colon, throat, and esophageal cancer: What every dentist should know
Close collaboration between pediatricians, dentists, and families is essential to provide comprehensive care for asthmatic children, focusing not only on managing the respiratory condition but also on preventing and addressing potential oral health issues.
