Oral health in patients affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease: a prospective study

BACKGROUND: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the second most common gastrointestinal disorder. The aim of this study is to report and discuss the demographic and oral clinical features of a population of patients affected by GERD. METHODS: A single-center prospective observational study was conducted in a cohort of patients who received diagnosis of GERD. Following an objective examination and interview with the patient, the following data and indexes were recorded: oral signs and symptoms of GERD; DMFT; PCR Plaque Index; Bleeding on Probing Index BOP; Simplified oral hygiene index OHI-S; WTCI tongue coating index. Finally, the following questionnaires were administered to the patients: Oral health impact profile (OHIP)-14 questionnaire; GERDQ questionnaire; Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaire. RESULTS: Sixteen patients (13 women and three men) were included, with a mean age of 57.4 years. The mean values of the detected indices were: PCR Plaque Index, 45%; BOP, 16%; WTCI, 1.27; OHI-S, 1.69. Oral signs and symptoms of GERD were found in 14 patients. In five patients, dental erosion was found at the occlusal level, in four patients erosion was found at both the occlusal and lingual/palatal levels; nine out of 16 patients presented a GERDQ score equal to or greater than 8, the cut-off of the questionnaire, while six patients (38%) obtained an abnormal RSI score. CONCLUSIONS: Early diagnosis of oral signs and symptoms associated with GERD is essential, as it allows patients to be promptly referred to specialized medical personnel for appropriate management.