Local Oral Biological Factors Associated with Oral Conditions in Children with Congenital Heart Disease: A Scoping Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59141/-.v8i2.583Keywords:
congenital heart disease, children, biological factors, saliva, oral microbiotaAbstract
Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are categorized as children with special health care needs and have an increased risk of oral health problems. Local oral biological factors, including enamel–dentin structure, enamel defects, saliva characteristics, oral microbiota, dental plaque, gingivitis, and dental caries, may contribute to oral susceptibility; however, the available evidence remains fragmented. This study aimed to map and synthesize evidence regarding local oral biological factors associated with oral conditions in children with CHD. A scoping review was conducted based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidance and reported according to the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature searches were performed in PubMed, Scopus, and EBSCOhost for studies published between 2014 and 2025. Primary studies involving children with CHD or oral/tooth samples from children with CHD that reported local biological factors or oral conditions were included. Data from eligible studies were narratively synthesized. Seventeen primary studies were included. The evidence demonstrated alterations in enamel–dentin structure, enamel defects, salivary characteristics, oral microbiota profiles, dental plaque biofilm, gingivitis, dental caries, and dental development. Histological and scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) studies provided evidence of changes in dental hard tissues, while clinical studies reported a substantial burden of caries, gingivitis, and enamel abnormalities. Local oral biological factors contribute to oral susceptibility in children with CHD and should be considered in preventive dental care. Early screening, plaque control, fluoride application, caries and gingival monitoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration are recommended.
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