ORAL MANIFESTATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH CONGENITAL ZIKA VIRUS SYNDROME

Abstract

The Zika Virus (ZIKV), primarily transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, can also be disseminated through sexual, transfusion, and transplacental routes. Congenital ZIKV infection is associated with significant neurological and oral complications, especially in children with microcephaly. The aim of this study was to analyze the main oral changes observed in children affected by Congenital Zika Virus Syndrome (CZVS), emphasizing the role of the dental surgeon in early diagnosis and clinical management. A literature review was conducted using the SciELO, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases, including articles in Portuguese, English, and Spanish that addressed oral manifestations associated with CZVS. Articles older than 20 years or outside the scope were excluded. The selected studies were critically analyzed, and their findings organized according to the main clinical manifestations reported. It is concluded that the most frequent oral changes include delayed tooth eruption, enamel hypoplasia, ogival palate (high-arched palate), shortened lingual frenulum, gingival changes, microdontia, malocclusion, and motor and cognitive impairments. These changes can impair sucking, swallowing, speech (phonation), and chewing (mastication), directly interfering with the child's overall development. Early dental and multidisciplinary follow-up, associated with preventive measures, guidance for caregivers, and adapted clinical strategies, is essential to improve the quality of life of these patients and minimize complications. Nonetheless, there is a need for longitudinal studies and standardized clinical protocols to enhance the dental management of the population affected by CZVS.