29 - Association Between G-Tube Formulas and the Amount of Calculus in Medically Complex Patients

Abstract:

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare various G-tube formulas and the amount of calculus in medically complex patients during their recall visits at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, U.S. It was hypothesized that children who were prescribed plant-based formulas had less calculus accumulation compared to those who were prescribed animal-based formulas.

Methods: Patients, ages 2 to 25 years old (56% males, 44% females), who visited the dental clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh for routine hygiene visits were included. The type of formula, the patient’s oral hygiene, and the length of time between recall appointments was recorded. It was also noted if the patients additionally ate by mouth or participated in pleasure feeding.

Results: Data was collected for 11 months and eighty-two patients were included. When comparing the quantity of calculus to feed type, there is a statistically significant value of (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found for oral hygiene or the number of surfaces.

Conclusion: Calculus formation is a complex, multifactorial process with significant implications for oral and systemic health. By identifying biological and behavioral predictors, we can move toward precision dentistry, reducing calculus-related complications and improving long-term patient outcomes. Enteral nutrition type shows a significant correlation with dental calculus severity.

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