Büşra BAŞER TAŞKIN, Gülşah KAVRUL KAYAALP, Selen Duygu ARIK, Ayşenur DOĞRU KILINÇ, Bengisu MENENTOĞLU, Ahmet TAŞKIN, Özlem AKGÜN, Nuray AKTAY AYAZ
Comprehensive Medicine - 2026;18(1):59-66
Objective: This study investigates the oral health status and hygiene practices of children with rheumatic diseases compared to healthy peers. It emphasizes the need to integrate dental care into managing these chronic conditions. Materials and Methods: Children under 18 years of age with rheumatic diseases were recruited from a pediatric rheumatology clinic. Demographic, diagnostic, and treatment data were collected, and a survey administered via Google Forms assessed general information, oral hygiene practices, and education. Results: The study included 303 participants: 150 with rheumatic diseases and 153 healthy controls. The results indicated that while dental visit frequency was similar between groups, children with rheumatic diseases were more likely to use manual toothbrushes (93.3% vs. 75.2%) and non-fluoride toothpaste. Both groups showed limited knowledge about toothpaste ingredients, but patients demonstrated slightly less awareness. Many participants had not attended oral hygiene workshops, although there was significant interest in further education. Conclusion: The findings show differences in oral hygiene between children with rheumatic diseases and healthy controls, highlighting the need for targeted care and better rheumatologist-dentist collaboration.
