Children with the inherited blood disorder sickle cell disease may face a higher risk of oral health problems; however, many don’t receive necessary care, according to researchers from the University of Michigan Medical School.
Access to dental care for children with sickle cell disease may be limited by few Medicaid-accepting dentists and unclear treatment guidelines, according to a university press release dated September 3.
“Sickle cell disease is known to increase the risk of dental complications in children, which underscores the importance of preventive dental care for this population,” Sarah Reeves, PhD, MPH, associate professor of pediatrics and epidemiology at the university, said in the release.
Sickle cell disease alters red blood cells, making them misshapen and capable of blocking blood flow, which can trigger serious health problems. Good dental health is important for children with sickle cell disease because oral infections can cause inflammation and stress, which may lead to the sickling of red blood cells, according to the release.
For this study, researchers examined dental care use among 1,096 children in Michigan with both sickle cell disease and Medicaid, as well as 1.18 million children enrolled in Medicaid overall. More than 40% of the children in both groups were between 6 and 14 years old.
Children with sickle cell disease used dental services at rates similar to other Medicaid-enrolled children. However, less than half of all children in either group received any type of dental care, including preventive visits and treatment, according to the release.
Access to care is limited by a shortage of dentists who accept Medicaid and by the lack of clear treatment guidelines for these patients. The researchers emphasize the need for improved provider training and stronger communication between medical and dental professionals.
“Given increased risk of oral health problems among patients with sickle cell disease we need focused efforts to expand access to dental services for them,” Reeves said.
