Oral Manifestations of Leukemia and Their Management in Therapeutic Dentistry

Leukemia is a malignant hematologic disorder characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal white blood cells that infiltrate bone marrow and peripheral tissues. The oral cavity frequently reflects early and progressive signs of the disease, making dental professionals critical in initial detection and supportive management. Oral manifestations include gingival enlargement, spontaneous bleeding, mucosal pallor, petechiae, ulcerations, opportunistic infections, and delayed wound healing. These symptoms arise from leukemic cell infiltration, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and anemia. This article analyzes the clinical features of oral involvement in leukemia patients and outlines evidence-based therapeutic dental management strategies before, during, and after oncologic treatment. Emphasis is placed on infection control, prevention of hemorrhagic complications, management of mucositis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Early recognition of oral signs improves prognosis through timely referral, while comprehensive dental care reduces treatment-related morbidity and enhances patient quality of life. Leukemia is a malignant disorder of hematopoietic tissues that frequently produces significant alterations within the oral cavity. Because oral tissues are highly vascular and rapidly renewing, they often reflect systemic hematologic disturbances at early stages of disease progression. This paper explores the spectrum of clinical changes observed in the mouths of patients affected by leukemia and evaluates contemporary approaches in therapeutic dentistry aimed at reducing complications and improving patient comfort. Common findings include gingival hypertrophy, spontaneous hemorrhage, mucosal pallor, ulcerative lesions, opportunistic infections, and therapy-induced mucositis. These manifestations arise from leukemic infiltration, anemia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and cytotoxic treatment effects. Comprehensive dental management based on hematologic status, infection control, minimally invasive care, and interdisciplinary coordination significantly decreases morbidity. Early identification of suspicious oral findings can facilitate prompt medical referral and contribute to improved systemic prognosis.