Clinical oral profile of pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives This work aims to describe oral health conditions, eating habits, and oral hygiene in pediatric and adolescent patients with atopic dermatitis and correlate them with the severity of the Scoring Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD). Also, we aim to estimate the effect of several variables on the diagnosis of dental caries in these patients. Material and Methods A total of 92 children and adolescents with atopic dermatitis had their oral cavities examined. The effect of independent variables on the diagnosis of dental caries (outcome) was assessed using multiple binary logistic regression model. Results Mild patients presented higher score of decayed, missing, and filled teeth in permanent dentition than moderate patients (p = 0.040). In the multivariable regression final model, the covariates using inhaled corticoid (OR = 6.4; p = 0.003), type of teething [deciduous dentition (OR = 7.9; p = 0.027) and mixed dentition (OR = 10.5; p = 0.007)], and brushing quality [poor mechanical control (OR = 10.6; p < 0.0001)] demonstrated significant direct effect on the diagnosis of dental caries. Conclusions Our findings suggest that the presence of dental biofilm, use of inhaled corticoid, and type of teething are related to the presence of caries in atopic dermatitis patients.