What is Sickle Cell Disease?
Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a group of disorders that affects hemoglobin. It is an atypical hemoglobin molecule (hemoglobin S) which can distort red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape.
How Does SCD Affect the Oral Health of Children?
Children with SCD may present anemia, repeated infections, and shortness of breath. Also, they might experience episodes of pain. These manifestations of the condition need to be taken into consideration when treating children with SCD.
Dental Characteristics of Sickle Cell Disease:
• Delayed teeth eruption
• Enamel Hypoplasia (Softening of the outer-most layer of the teeth)
• Malocclusion (abnormal alignment of the teeth)
• Periodontitis (condition that affects the gingiva and bone around the teeth)
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