Dental considerations for the patient with renal disease receiving hemodialysis

Article Abstract:

People on dialysis for kidney disease may have oral complications from the disease and require specialized treatment from dentists. Kidney failure can cause problems such as metallic taste or unpleasant odor in the mouth, dry mouth, oral ulcers, weakened jaw bones, and loose teeth. People on dialysis may be anemic and more susceptible to excessive bleeding and infections. To prevent bleeding, the dentist may use general or local clot-promoting drugs, such as mouthwashes, and exercise caution during oral surgery. Dentists may also choose to treat certain patients with preventative antibiotics before a procedure, particularly if the patient is susceptible to blood infections that could damage the heart. Dentists should also be careful in prescribing drugs to people on dialysis as the effects of doses may be altered by impaired kidney function or anemia.

Author: Glick, Michael, De Rossi, Scott S.
Complications and side effects, Practice, Dental care, Oral hygiene, Chronic kidney failure, Hemodialysis patients

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Dental considerations in asplenic patients

Article Abstract:

Modifications to dental care should be considered when treating patients who have had their spleen removed. The spleen acts as a filter for foreign materials in the blood stream and regulates immune functions. Therefore, asplenic patients are particularly prone to infections, such as pneumococcal infection. Preventive strategies include the use of antibiotics and disclosing any risk factors to the dentist prior to treatment.

Author: Glick, Michael, De Rossi, Scott S.
Infection, Antibiotics, Risk factors, Physiological aspects, Mouth, Spleen, Oral microbiology

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The dental patient with asthma: an update and oral health considerations

Article Abstract:

A review of the causes, diagnosis and treatment of asthma is presented. Dentists should be more familiar with the signs and symptoms of asthma, since children and young adults are at highest risk. Asthma can also affect the teeth and oral tissues.

Author: Steinbacher, Derek M., Glick, Michael
Analysis, Cover Story, Asthma

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Subjects list: Health aspects
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