Key Dental Parameters in Diagnosing COVID-19

BACKGROUND: According to published research, COVID-19 is associated with various changes in the body, including the maxillofacial area. When assessing dental health, it is essential to analyze the main predictors of the severity of COVID-19-induced changes in periodontal tissues. AIM: This work aimed to assess key dental parameters in patients with COVID-19 to determine potential complications. METHODS: The study included 194 patients. Of these, 112 were admitted to COVID-19 hospitals, and 82 were relatively healthy (without serious comorbidities). Patients were divided into age groups: 18 years (age group 1), 20–24 years (age group 2), 35–44 years (age group 3), 45–54 years (age group 4), and 55–64 years (age group 5). The study assessed the stomatognathic system and overall health, as well as microhemodynamic parameters and oxygen saturation in periodontal tissues. RESULTS: The study revealed typical general complaints and symptoms in patients admitted to COVID-19 hospitals. The most common symptoms were hyposalivation, hypogeusia, and hyposmia/anosmia. Gingival bleeding was reported in age groups 4 and 5 (20% and 18.5%, respectively). Less than 25% of patients with COVID-19 reported sensitive teeth. Microcirculation in patients with COVID-19 was significantly poorer than in the control group. Moreover, patients admitted to COVID-19 hospitals had reduced oxygen saturation. However, the acid-base balance in these patients remained normal. CONCLUSION: The observed changes in dental health and microhemodynamics indicate a high risk of periodontal diseases in the future.