The Dental Health Status of Dialysis Patients

Background: The number of patients with kidney failure who require dialysis is growing by 10% to 15% annually, and the likelihood that dentists will treat such patients is also increasing. The dental care of patients undergoing dialysis can be complex, given the prevalence of comorbid conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, renal osteodystrophy and immunosuppression, the presence of nondental prosthetic devices, and the use of antihypertensives and anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents. These patients appear to be predisposed to a variety of dental problems such as periodontal disease, narrowing of the pulp chamber, enamel abnormalities, premature tooth loss and xerostomia. Dental care, as well as primary preventive measures, seems to have been neglected in these patients. Therefore, a study of the dental health of dialysis patients was undertaken.