Evaluation of Oral Health Status in Patients of Congenital Cardiac Defects

Introduction: Congenital Cardiac Defect are most common anatomical and developmental anomalies of the cardiovascular system. Poor oral health status in such patients predispose them to the risk of developing Bacterial Infective Endocarditis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Oral Health Status of Congenital Cardiac Defect patients. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on (n=50) patients with clinically diagnosed Congenital Cardiac Defect by the Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Department of our Institute during the year 2019-2020. The evaluation of Oral Health Status was done by assessing two dental indices viz Simplified Oral Hygiene Index and Modified Gingival Index. Post data analysis appropriate statistical test were applied. Results: A comparative evaluation of Oral Hygiene Status (SimplifiedOral Hygiene Index scores) was done between male and female study subjects which demonstrated that 54% (14 Males and 13 females=27), had good oral hygiene status. Similarly, evaluation of Gingival Health Status by (Modified Gingival Index scores) showed 74% (19 Males and 18 Females=37) having mild gingival inflammation. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated a high percentage of Congenital Cardiac Defect patients having Good Oral Hygiene and Gingival Health. Although, it is recommended that a regular oral health assessment of such patients is done from time to time to promote continuous oral health awareness and education amongst them to lower their risk of developing IE. Dentist are also advised to use simple, quick and non-invasive dental indices and diagnostic tools to assess the Oral Health Status of Congenital Cardiac Defect Patients.