Background

Few oral health studies have been conducted in HIV-exposed uninfected children, who, like their HIV-infected peers, have altered immunity and perinatal drug exposures.

Aim

To compare caregiver’ self-report of oral diseases, hygiene practices and utilization of routine dental care, between HIV-infected (HIV), HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU), and HIV-unexposed uninfected (HUU) children in Kenya.

Design

This nested cross-sectional study was conducted at the Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya. Caregivers of 196 children (104 HIV-infected, 55 HEU, and 37 HUU) participated in this study. Using a validated questionnaire from the WHO and photographs of HIV-related oral lesions, we collected data on oral diseases and oral health practices.

Results

Caregivers of HIV-infected children reported at least one oral disease in their children (42%; HEU [27%]; HUU [17%; P = .008]). Oral candidiasis was the most common disease reported (HIV-infected [24%], HEU [5.5%], and HUU [2.8%; P < .05]). Baseline CD4% was associated with oral candidiasis (OR = 0.93, 95% CI: 0.88-0.98). Only 16% of children had ever visited a dentist, and most initiated brushing after 3 years of age (83%). Nearly all (98%) caregivers desired a follow-up oral examination.

Conclusions

HIV infection/exposure and low CD4% were associated with increased odds of oral diseases. Most caregivers desired a follow-up oral examination for their children.