Exploring the Impact of Blood Disorders on Dental Caries

Cureus. 2023 Oct 16;15(10):e47159. doi: 10.7759/cureus.47159. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Abstract

Blood comprises various cellular elements and serves as our immune system's second line of defense. Deviations from its normal composition can have adverse effects on health. At the same time, the oral mucosa in the oral cavity functions as the body's first line of defense, and any anomalies or diseases within it can give rise to both systemic and oral complications. If left untreated, caries can lead to severe tooth damage or extraction, potentially affecting an individual's nutrition and overall health. This review article focuses on the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between blood disorders and oral health. It underscores the profound impact of oral manifestations of blood disorders such as β-thalassemia, sickle cell disease, iron deficiency anemia, leukemia, hemophilia, Plummer-Vinson syndrome, erythroblastosis fetalis, Fanconi anemia, cyclic neutropenia, and acute lymphoblastic leukemia on the overall well-being of an individual.

Keywords: dental caries; iron deficiency anemia; leukemia; sickle cell anemia; thalassemia.

Publication types

  • Review