429 - Dental Provider Effect On Oral Health Of Pediatric Hemophiliac Patients

Purpose: To determine the influence of a dental provider within a Pediatric Hemophiliac outpatient clinic on the oral health outcomes in this patient population.

Methods: This prospective descriptive study reviewed children ages 5-17 years old, attending the outpatient Pediatric Hematology clinic at University of Florida Shands Hospital (UFSH). Oral examinations were performed by Pediatric dental residents using a dental mirror and wooden tongue blade during the patient’s regular Hematology clinic appointment. Dental exams recorded patient’s oral hygiene index (OHI), the presence of decayed, missing, and filled deciduous teeth (dmft) and decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth (DMFT). A questionnaire was provided to the patient’s caregiver for information on oral health practices such as frequency of brushing, presence of a dental home, frequency of dental check-ups, parental perceptions of their child’s oral health, as well as their ability to help prevent dental disease in their child. This information was recorded at the initial outpatient visit and again at their follow up appointment for their hemophilia.

Results: Ten male children have been enrolled and their mean OHI was fair. Four caregivers stated that their child’s gums bleed during brushing and reported moderate to frequent snacking. Three patients did not have a dental home. One patient returned for their follow-up appointment and developed dental caries in four primary molars over a span of eight months. All patients without a dental home were referred to UF Pediatric Dentistry.

Conclusions: Data collection is currently ongoing; however preliminary study outcomes have resulted in establishment of a dental home for three patients with early and severe early childhood caries.