EC Paediatrics

Asthma is a disease of airways that is characterized by increased responsiveness of the tracheo bronchial tree to a multiplicity of stimuli. It is manifest by a widespread narrowing of the air passages and clinically by paroxysms of dyspnoea, coughing, and wheezing and 10% of children are affected. Females have a higher rate than males, although the prevalence is higher during childhood in boys. It is mainly due to allergy-like dust, pollen, respiratory infection, emotional distress, chocolates and change of climate. Oral manifestations are high caries rate, gingivitis, high palatal vault, posterior crossbite, increased over jet; gingivitis may occur in response to poor oral hygiene. Complete medical history like frequency of attacks, the severity of an attack, and medication, etc. Seat the child in an upright position for dental procedures. Treat a child soon after the medication is given. If the child is using inhaler, it should be brought along with him for the dental appointments in case of an attack. Rubber should be used judiciously as it can accentuate the asthmatic attack. Carious lesions, bacteria loaded aerosols, ultrasonically triggered water, aeroallergens such as enamel dust, acrylate are potent precipitants. Sedation and general anesthesia can be given if indicated. The patient who is receiving corticosteroid therapy should double or triple the dosage. Use of aspirin, NSAID and penicillin are contraindicated. Local anesthesia can be given. Use of nitrous oxide-oxygen sedation is most desirable. In case of an asthmatic attack in emergency administer 100% oxygen with patient sitting position leaning forward and subcutaneous administration of 0.3 mi of 1:1000 epinephrine. This article discusses about the etiology, clinical features, and management aspects of children with asthma.

 Keywords: Asthma; Children; Oral Health; Dental Management

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