The role of the dentist in the diagnosis and management of patients with oral mucosal diseases / El papel del dentista en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de pacientes con enfermedades de la mucosa oral

ABSTRACT

Based on a few case reports of oral mucosal diseases a number of questions is raised about the role of dentists-general practitioners in the diagnostic procedure and management of patients with such diseases. For instance, aredentists prepared to prescribe topical corticosteroids and should dentists be taught how and when to take a biopsy?And how about palpation of the neck? A strong recommendation is made to take clinical pictures for proper docu-mentation and, if needed, for telediagnostic procedures.Another issue relates to the communication between dentists and dental specialists when dealing with patientswith oral diseases. In case of a patient suffering from burning mouth syndrome or any other type of chronicorofacial pain, the question is raised whether dentists-general practitioners are prepared to manage such patients.Furthermore, there is a call for structuring the collaboration between dentists-general practitioners and dentalspecialists, including oral and maxillofacial surgeons.(AU)