Understanding the relationship between medicinal products for pediatric use and dental caries

Abstract

The development of caries occur with the loss of tooth mineral by the action of acids produced by bacterial fermentation of the sugars present in the diet. Besides the consumption of cariogenic foods and beverages consumed by children, medicines containing sucrose may be another factor related to the disease. Sucrose is a facilitator for adherence to treatment and many children require prolonged use of these drugs may produce therapeutic effect beyond some adverse effects, such as dental caries. Objective: Due to the controversies presented in the literature regarding the cariogenic potential of pediatric liquid medications administered for a long period of time, the aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between decay and pediatric medicines. Data source: a narrative review of the literature using key words in Portuguese and English was held drugs, etiology, aetiology, tooth decay, in Medline, Medicine®, BBO data, Capes Portal, SciELO. Data synthesis: The studies show that medicinal products for pediatric use have elevated levels of sucrose, reduced endogenous pH and high acidity, showing the cariogenic potential of some drugs. Conclusion: There is a strong relationship between prolonged use of medication and caries, therefore showing population about the risks related to the continued use of sweetened medication and the development of disease when there is no proper oral hygiene are essential.