Özet:

Aim: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a multisystemic disease that affects the quality of life of patients from the early stages of their lives. The aim of our study was to evaluate the knowledge level of the primary caregiver parent (mother) of our SCD patients about the complications that develop in the mouth, teeth and jaw region. Method: Fifty children and young adults diagnosed with SCD and their primary caregiver parents were included in the study. A questionnaire was applied to the parents, and their level of knowledge on oral and dental health in SCD and the clinical symptoms their children experienced in the mouth, teeth and jaw area were questioned. Results: 28 (56%) of mothers stated that SCD had an effect on oral, dental and jaw health. It was determined that the frequency of vaso-occlusive crisis (VOC) was lower in those who brushed their teeth once a day compared to those who did not brush at all (5% vs. 58%), and the frequency of transfusion was lower in those who brushed ≥2 teeth than those who did not brush at all (6% vs. 32%). Conclusion: Our study; showed that 44% of parents were unaware of the complications of SCD in the mouth, teeth, and jaw area. We also determined that tooth brushing may have an effect on the frequency of VOC and blood transfusion. The awareness of patients and parents about the importance of oral and dental hygiene and the complications of SCD in this region should be increased.

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