ORAL MANIFESTATIONS OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE IN CHILDREN

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a condition characterized by the retrograde passage of the gastric contents into the esophagus and subsequently into the oral cavity. Dentists can frequently diagnose a systemic disease by analysing the oral cavity – especially GERD with a minimal expression of digestive symptoms. Typical oral manifestations in GERD are dental erosions, burning sensation, mucosal erythema of the palate and uvula, and bruxism. Late diagnosis and, implicitly, late treatment of GERD can lead to significant deterioration of the teeth and mastication system. The successful treatment of GERD requires a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, ENT specialists and dentists.