Dental Caries and Erosion in Children with Nephrotic Syndrome on Long-Term Liquid Medications—A Cross-Sectional Observational Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the experience and consequences of dental caries and erosion in children aged 1–14 years on long-term liquid medications compared to those not on these medications. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using a WHO-adapted questionnaire, medical surveys, and oral examinations. Participants included children with nephrotic syndrome in two groups: those on long-term liquid medications for at least three months (study group) and those not taking liquid medications (control group). The Decayed, Missing, and Filled Surfaces index (dmfs/DMFS) assessed caries, while the Pulpal Involvement, Ulceration, Fistula, and Abscess index (PUFA/pufa) measured caries consequences. The Basic Erosive Wear Examination index (BEWE) assessed erosion. Results: A total of 64 participants were included, with 33 in the study group and 31 in the control group. The study group had a significantly higher mean dmfs/DMFS of 16.9 ± 12.6 versus 5.2 ± 4.0 in the control group (p < 0.001). The PUFA/pufa index was also higher in the study group (0.8) compared to the control group (0.1) (p = 0.009). Erosion showed a non-significant increase with a BEWE score of 0.2 vs. 0.03 in the control group (p = 0.053). Conclusions: Long-term liquid medication use significantly affects dental caries in children after three months.