Tooth damage after meningococcal

septicemia

Rebecca JohnConsultant, Senior Teaching Fellow in Paediatric Dentistry

University of Bristol

Tooth development

Why do teeth get affected with meningococcal septicaemia?

• Viral and bacterial infections in early childhood can disturb dental and orofacial development.

• Serious childhood infections increase the prevalence of dental defects

• Children are more susceptible to developmental defects than adults because they are in a critical stage of development

When do complications become apparent?• 7-8 years • Permanent teeth erupt with discoloration or• Permanent teeth fail to erupt

Which teeth are affected?

Teeth that are developing at the time of the infection.

Baby teeth often spared- Why?

Possible dental defects

• Discoloration of teeth• Defective enamel on teeth- prone to decay• Thin, rough teeth Premature loss of teeth• Malocclusion/Crowding of teeth/ gum disease• Missing teeth• Ectopic eruption of teeth- teeth erupting in the wrong place

Impact of dental problems

• Discomfort/ sensitive teeth• Socialization with peers• Self esteem• Prolonged treatment

What can you do to keep your teeth healthy?

• Eating well• Fluorides• Cleaning teeth• Sealants• Regular check up

Diet and sugar consumption

Fluorides

Toothpaste

X

No rinsing after brushing

X

Sealants

• What are sealants?

plastic coatings which are applied to the chewing surfaces of the molars (back teeth)

Regular check up

Thank you