Oral Manifestations of Anemia: Review

Abstract

Anemia is a hematological condition and is defined as having less than the normal number of red blood cells or less than the normal hemoglobin level in the blood. If the hemoglobin level in the blood is < 13.5 g/dL in men and < 12 g/dL in women, the condition is described as anemia. When hemoglobin levels in the blood decrease, oxygen levels in the tissues decrease, resulting in hypoxia. Functional disturbances may be observed in tissues because of hypoxia. Therefore, clinical symptoms of anemia may affect various systems of the body. Hematological deficiencies can affect teeth, mucous membranes, periodontal tissues, salivary glands, and perioral skin. In this study, the oral and perioral manifestations of anemia are reviewed and the importance of dentistry is emphasized.