Dental and oral care for chronically ill children and adolescents.

Dental care is the most unmet health care need of children and adolescents who have chronic conditions and diseases. Because advances in therapy and medical technology have extended the lives of this population, it is very likely that these children will seek care in general dental practices. It is extremely important for dental practitioners to be knowledgeable about their patients' history and medical treatment to deliver care safely. This article reviews four chronic diseases of childhood (asthma, cystic fibrosis, cancer, and sickle cell disease) and discusses recommendations for oral and dental treatment.