Oral health status in epileptic children.

BACKGROUND

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the oral hygiene status and dental treatment requirements in children with epilepsy.

METHODS

The treatment group consisted of 211 children with epilepsy (120 boys and 91 girls, 4-15 years old, mean age 7.85 + or - 2.98 years). The control group consisted of healthy children, matched by age and gender. Clinical features of the patients were obtained from hospital records. Clinical examinations were conducted, under standard light, using a plane buccal mirror, a dental probe and air drying to evaluate caries experience and to record the periodontal health of each child. Statistical analysis was performed using chi(2) test, Fisher exact test and anova.

RESULTS

The number of decayed and missing teeth, the degree of abrasion and periodontal indexes were significantly worse in patients with epilepsy, compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Gingival enlargement was documented in 42% of patients on valproate monotherapy compared to only in 16% of patients on phenobarbital. Dental caries and halitosis were the most common oral disorders. Generalized tonic-clonic seizures often cause minor oral injuries and traumatized anterior teeth.

CONCLUSIONS

Epileptic children are at an increased risk of developing caries and gingivitis compared with healthy subjects.