Comprehensive Assessment of Orofacial Health and Disease Related Parameters in Adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to investigate oral health and functional status of adolescents with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and its possible link to disease specific parameters.

METHODS

Patients with JIA were recruited (November 2012-October 2014) and disease specific information was extracted from patients' records. Oral examination included: dental findings (decayed-, missing- and filled-teeth-index (dmf-t/DMF-T)), gingival inflammation (papilla-bleeding-index (PBI)) and periodontal screening index (PSI). Functional examination followed Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD). Additionally, modified Helkimo's Clinical Dysfunction Index and radiographic scoring were recorded.

RESULTS

59 JIA patients were included. The mean dmf-t/DMF-T was 2.6. Only one patient showed no signs of gingival inflammation, while 57.6% had a maximum PSI of 2 or less. Positive functional findings were assessed clinically in more than half of the patients. Major diagnosis by RDC/TMD was osteoarthrosis. Patients with at least one positive anamnestic or clinical functional finding revealed significantly higher radiographic scores (CI = 0.440, p = 0.022). Patients with increased c-reactive-protein had a significantly higher PBI (Z = -2.118, p = 0.034) and increased radiographic scores (CI = 0.408, p = 0.043).

CONCLUSIONS

Adolescents suffering from JIA show high levels of caries experience and gingival inflammation. Temporomandibular joint dysfunction is often seen in JIA patients. Consequently, special dental care programs would be recommendable.