DOI

https://doi.org/10.25772/Q75K-MA08

Defense Date

2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Dentistry

Department

Dentistry

First Advisor

William Dahlke, DMD

Second Advisor

Frances Austin, MD

Third Advisor

Caroline Carrico, Ph.D.

Fourth Advisor

Erica Brecher, DMD, MS

Fifth Advisor

Patrice Wunsch DDS, MS

Sixth Advisor

Todd Kitten, Ph.D.

Abstract

Purpose: Pediatric dentists could serve a role in care of children with leukemia. Oral sequelae of cancer therapies are well documented. The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the pediatric dentist in the care of patients with leukemia. Methods: Pediatric Hematology and Oncology at Virginia Commonwealth University was educated on the proposed protocol and administered a questionnaire to assess feasibility of implementing prevention education by the pediatric dentist. Patients were randomized into two groups at diagnosis: one receiving current oral health protocol and those receiving one-on-one prevention education with the pediatric dentist at three points during treatment. Data was collected through clinical intraoral examination and salivary sample. Results: All respondents reported this would address a known problem for patients. They agreed it is feasible and would be a valuable addition to care of these patients. Subject recruitment is ongoing for the effectiveness portion of the study. Conclusion: The addition of the pediatric dentist to the pediatric oncology care team is warranted and feasible.

Rights

© The Author

Is Part Of

VCU University Archives

Is Part Of

VCU Theses and Dissertations

Date of Submission

4-30-2018

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