Might Zika virus‐associated microcephaly's severity impact deciduous tooth eruption and orofacial structures?

Abstract

Objective to investigate the impact of the severity of microcephaly caused by the Zika virus (MCZ) on tooth eruption and orofacial structures of children. Design This case series study developed the research at the Mens Sana Rehabilitation Center, Arcoverde, Brazil. The study included 27 children diagnosed with MCZ. We performed the data collection in June 2018 through a questionnaire answered by the legal guardians, followed by a clinical examination of the children. The data were analyzed by the Mann–Whitney and Fisher's exact tests (p = 0.05). Results The final sample was composed of 20 children. Of these, 13 (35.0%) had severe microcephaly, 5 (30.0%) had altered sequence of tooth eruption, 10 (50.0%) had delayed eruption, and the mean number of decayed teeth was 2.3. The most identified orofacial changes were teeth grinding habit (65.0%), difficult chewing (50.0%), and non‐nutritive sucking (50.0%). The Mann–Whitney test showed that the severity of microcephaly did not affect tooth eruption (p = 0.581). The Fisher's exact test showed that the severity of microcephaly was not associated with orofacial changes (p > 0.05). Conclusions The severity of MCZ does not seem to influence changes in deciduous tooth eruption and the presence of orofacial anomalies.

Systemic Manifestations, Tooth Eruption and Enamel Defects in Children with Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome: 36-Month Follow-up Case Series

“…In this study, one of the children had a severe delay in the eruption of the first deciduous tooth, occurring only in the 17th month of life. Overall, the pattern of delay is consistent with previous studies [7][8][9][10]24,[32][33][34]. In cases 2 and 5, alteration in the sequence of eruption of deciduous teeth was observed, as the maxillary central incisors were the first teeth to erupt; in addition, the event occurred beyond the expected time, at 13 and 15 months, respectively.…”

Access to information on oral hygiene and mothers' practices of children with microcephaly caused by Zika virus

“…The actions are capable of transforming the reality of the individual and his family, besides strengthening their bond with the health service. Thus, the quality of life of children with microcephaly can be improved 28,29 …”

“…Thus, the quality of life of children with microcephaly can be improved. 28,29 Obviously, oral health education for babies with microcephaly should include their family and caregivers due to their inability to self-care. Moreover, this education directed also to the family aims at the adoption of healthier habits so that the new practices of those responsible for the children serve as an example for them and stimulate them.…”