Sickle Cell Disease: Oral Implications and Management

Sickle cell disease is a haemoglobinopathy disorder resulting from abnormality in the haemoglobin molecule. Dental management of sickle cell patients is important for several reasons: oral tissue can be affected by the condition and result in orofacial abnormalities. Because the condition requires extensive medical management, patients may neglect their dental health. The management of the oral manifestations of sickle cell disease should be treated alongside underlying systemic conditions, taking into account any exacerbation or deterioration in the patient's health. This review aims to summarize the oral complications and management of sickle cell disease. CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article highlights the problems with which patients with sickle cell may present in general dental practice.