Dental disease in thalassemic patients

ABSTRACT

Enhanced extramedullary erythropoiesis in patients with thalassemia major results in serious cosmetic and dental complications. Enlargement of the facial bones especially the maxilla results in protrusion of teeth leading to overbite and difficulties during mastication. In those patients, separation of teeth, gingivitis and sinusitis are common. Furthermore, co-morbid conditions such as transfusion dependency, hypersplenism and iron overload are common and responsible for multiple infectious, hematologic and endocrine complications. Hence, pre-operative investigations and special approach is indicated in the management of oro-dental disease in this patient population