Sickle Cell Anemia and Its Impact on the Oral Cavity: Integrative Review

Authors

• Fernanda Leal, University Fernando Pessoa, PortugalFollow
• Maria Inês Guimarães, University Fernando Pessoa, PortugalFollow
• Ambre Natbeth, University Fernando Pessoa, PortugalFollow
• Inês Lopes Cardoso, University Fernando Pessoa, PortugalFollow

Abstract

Introduction: Sickle cell anemia, a hereditary disease, results from a mutation in the β-globin coding gene that makes up hemoglobin, leading to the deformation of erythrocytes. Numerous oral manifestations result from this disease; however, some may not be specific.

Objectives: This study’s objective is to recognize these clinical manifestations of the disease to be able to manage oral health in sickle cell anemia patients.

Methods: this integrative review analyzes scientific literature on the impact of sickle cell anemia on oral cavity. A bibliographic search was performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, CINAHL Plus (via EBSCO host), Web of Science and Google Scholar databases using several combined keywords. The research question was: “What is the impact of sickle cell anemia on the oral cavity and dental treatments?”.

Results: By applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 11 articles were included in this review.

Conclusions: Studies show that the most common oral manifestations in these patients are periodontal disease and caries, although this association is not well understood.

Recommended Citation

Leal, Fernanda; Guimarães, Maria Inês; Natbeth, Ambre; and Lopes Cardoso, Inês (2025) "Sickle Cell Anemia and Its Impact on the Oral Cavity: Integrative Review," International Arab Journal of Dentistry: Vol. 16: Iss. 2, Article 14.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70174/iajd.v16i2.1491
Available at: https://e-journals.usj.edu.lb/iajd/vol16/iss2/14