Biochemical and Microbiological Aspects of the Oral Cavity of Children and Young People With Neurological Impairment and Oropharyngeal Dysphagia

Abstract

Abstract Background The components and the salivary flow have a direct influence on the composition of the oral microbiota of children and young people with oropharyngeal dysphagia, studies have already demonstrated excessive accumulation of supragingival dental calculus in individuals with enteral nutrition. This study aimed to compare the oral hygiene, biochemical, and microbiological aspects of the oral cavity of children and young people with neurological impairment and oropharyngeal dysphagia. Methods Forty children and young people with neurological impairment and oropharyngeal dysphagia were enrolled and divided into two groups: group I, including 20 participants fed via gastrostomy; and group II, including 20 participants fed via the oral route. Oral hygiene and salivary pH and flow were assessed, and polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate the messenger RNA expressions of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tanerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola. Results In groups I and II, the mean Oral Hygiene Index - Simplified scores were 4 and 2, respectively, showing a significant difference; the mean Calculus Index scores were 2 and 0, respectively, showing a significant difference; and the mean pH was 7.5 and 6.0, respectively, showing a significant difference. Bacterial analysis indicated no association between the two groups. Conclusion Children and young people who use gastrostomy had a poorer oral hygiene, greater dental calculus deposition, and higher salivary pH. Saliva of patients in both groups contained Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tanerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola.