Childhood Chickenpox May Cause Oral Complications in the Future

Chickenpox; a nightmare for children and parents. Red fluid filled blisters that cause uncomfortable itching, fever, upset stomach and to top it all off, an unpleasant scar may result as a constant reminder for years to come. My youngest daughter is scheduled for her Varivax vaccine this Wednesday and although I am reluctantly preparing for the appointment (what parent enjoys seeing their child in pain?) the Academy of General Dentistry suggests in a press release that chicken pox may lead to oral health complications years later such as herpes-type lesions and severe bone damage to the jaws.

The varcella zoster virus is responsible for the chickenpox infection and may remain dormant in the body for years. If the virus is activated, herpes zoster; more commonly known as shingles, will infect the person causing " painful blisters that erupt along the sensory nerves usually on one side of the body or face," according to co-author of the study M.A. Pogrel, DDS, MD, adding "It can be a debilitating disease that can lead to osteonecrosis of the jaw and vision loss in addition to a prolonged painful syndrome." Osteonecrosis is a condition that causes the bone in the upper and lower jaws to become exposed. The Academy notes that the jaw bone suffers severe damage and/or death, eventually leading to tooth loss, but is clear in revealing that the exact reason for tooth loss is unknown, although it has been noted that restricted blood flow and inflammation may be a cause.

If you are at risk for osteonecrosis, AGD spokesperson Laura Murcko, DMD, recommends regular dental visits because "Your dentist can help detect early signs of osteonecrosis of the jaw by checking for loose teeth, detached gums as well as taking dental x-rays." Along with proper brushing and flossing, Dr. Murcko recommends that patients consume 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day, add vitamin D to their diet, exercise and weight train, quit smoking and decrease caffeine and alcohol intake.