What Haemophiliacs Need To Know About Dental Care

Haemophilia is a disorder where the blood doesn’t have enough factors to clot properly, causing prolonged bleeding. This condition can be dangerous, so haemophiliacs need to take extra care throughout their lives. This extra care extends to all spheres, including the dental sphere.

Oral Hygiene

It is important that those with haemophilia take extra care of their oral hygiene in order to prevent dental problems which may require surgery for treatment. Haemophiliacs should brush their teeth twice a day (using a soft-bristle toothbrush), gently floss between their teeth once a day, and see their dentist for regular check-ups.

Teeth Cleanings

Having a dentist and hygienist regularly clean and examine teeth is not only safe for haemophiliacs, but important for their dental health. Those with haemophilia should notify their dentist of this condition so the dentist can take extra care when cleaning and examining their mouth.

Gum Disease

Gum disease has several symptoms, including bleeding gums. This symptom is very harmful for haemophiliacs, so they should see their dentist for treatment as soon as they can. The dentist may need to contact the haemophiliac’s physician if the gum disease is very severe.

Dental Procedures

Procedures that require an incision to the oral tissue, such as a tooth extraction, require extra care for those with haemophilia. The dentist should contact the haemophiliac’s physician so they can work together during this procedure. Steps will be taken to prevent problems such as factor replacement therapy, use of resorbable sutures, application of fibrin sealants, etc.