ABSTRACT
Serious medical emergencies are fortunately a rare occurrence in the dental practice environment; however, if an emergency situation is encountered a delay in treatment may result in potentially avoidable consequences. The risk of mortality or serious morbidity can be reduced by ensuring that basic emergency equipment and medications are in place, and that the dental team is appropriately trained in basic life support measures. This article aims to provide an overview of the basic emergency medications and equipment that should be present in dental practices, and to discuss specific responses to some of the more common adverse medical events that can present while providing dental treatment.
Subject(s)
Emergencies , Emergency Treatment , Adrenal Insufficiency/therapy , Airway Obstruction/therapy , Anaphylaxis/therapy , Angina Pectoris/therapy , Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation , Defibrillators , Dental Care for Chronically Ill , Dental Staff/education , Epilepsy/therapy , Humans , Hyperventilation/therapy , Hypoglycemia/therapy , Myocardial Infarction/therapy , Pharmaceutical Preparations , Syncope/therapyABSTRACT
Patients with renal diseases are increasingly common in dental practice. This is due to advances in medicine, and the increasing life expectancy of western populations. Chronic renal failure is a serious condition that general dental practitioners may see in their practice. This article discusses the functions of the kidney, and the causes and medical management of chronic renal failure, as well as considerations in the dental management of these patients. Common complications such as infection and bleeding are discussed. General recommendations are made, based on current evidence with respect to prescribing of medications.
Subject(s)
Dental Care for Chronically Ill , Kidney Failure, Chronic , HumansABSTRACT
Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by seizure activity. It has an approximate incidence of 1%. General dental practitioners will encounter these patients in practice. This article discusses the types of epilepsy, the medical management and considerations in dental management of epileptic patients. General recommendations are made, based on current evidence, with respect to prescribing of medications. The management of an epileptic seizure is discussed. Status epilepticus is a rare but serious complication of epileptic seizures. An easy-to-follow algorithm is provided to assist the practitioner in managing seizures.
