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