Oral Health in Individuals With Asthma

Abstract

Objective. The prevalence of bronchial asthma is increasing globally by 50% every decade. With more individuals presenting with a medical history of asthma and concurrent medication usage, its impact on oral cavity needs to be recognized. The present study was conducted with an aim to assess the oral health status of individuals with asthma aged 12 years and older and to evaluate the effect of various antiasthma medications on oral health. Materials and Methods. Forty individuals with asthma (22 females and 18 males) between 12 and 66 years of age were included in the study after following extensive exclusion criteria. For all subjects a detailed case history was taken. A thorough oral examination was conducted to determine caries experience, periodontal status, and candidiasis. Furthermore, whole unstimulated saliva was collected for pH estimation and cytological smears obtained for the screening of candidiasis. Results. Of the 40 subjects examined, a history of xerostomia was found in 55%, stomatopyrosis in 22%, and halitosis in 5%. The mean DMFT (decayed, missing, filled teeth) was 4.97. Periodontal treatment need evaluation revealed the requirement for oral hygiene education and professional prophylaxis in most of the subjects. However, no significant correlation was found between use of antiasthma medications and periodontal needs. An acidic pH was found in 52.5% of the subjects and candidiasis was detected in 65%. Conclusion. A high incidence of xerostomia, acidic pH, and candidiasis was found in those having asthma. Studies with a larger sample size may help confirm these findings. However, it is suggested that asthma patients on regular antiasthma treatment need special attention in the area of oral health care.