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Patient Management

418 - Management of Oral Manifestations of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children

Saturday, May 25, 2024
10:45 AM – 10:55 AM EST
Location: Exhibit Hall (back left corner of the hall, space 137)
Abstract:

Introduction: Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is caused by backup of gastric contents into the esophagus and mouth. Risk factors include obesity, consumption of acidic/fatty foods and defective esophageal sphincter. GER symptoms include heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and erosive tooth wear (ETW). Impact of GER in children include refusal to eat, irritability, poor growth, and unusual weight loss. Acid reducer therapies are used by pediatricians for treating chronic GER in children. Dental healthcare professionals (DHCP) awareness, early detection of ETW, proper diagnosis and management of GER are important to prevent further oral-systemic disease complications.


Methods: Retrospective analysis of literature through 2023. Search engine strategy, MESH terms (heartburn in children, GER/GOR, GERD, and dental erosion), EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Library, OVID.


Results: Systemic symptoms of GER are either esophageal or extra-esophageal such as dental pain/sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet substances, and in extreme cases, pulpal abscess. Parental complaints include yellow discoloration of teeth and poor aesthetics. Signs of acid-related dental erosion are manifested on the palatal aspects of maxillary teeth and occlusal surfaces of mandibular molars, flattened occlusal contours, cupping of cusp tips and maxillary buccal cervical erosion. Studies suggest acid exposure due to GER may contribute to bruxism. Dental erosion may be the only clinical sign in silent reflux. If tooth wear and its causative factors in primary dentition are not addressed, it may negatively affect the permanent teeth.


Conclusion: Educating DHCP on ETW/GER symptoms, early identification of oral manifestations, dietary guidance and multidisciplinary preventative strategies will improve dental outcomes in children.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by Haleon