Summary
Dental patients are becoming more chemically challenged which means that clinicians must consider the dental treatment impact of chronic drug therapy or chemical exposure. This program will provide clinically useful information on identification and management of intra-oral drug and chemical effects and potential drug interactions with dental drugs. Drug-induced effects such as bruxism, increased gag reflex, osteonecrosis of the jaw, candidosis, and xerostomia will be examined. Chemical effects such as mucosal irritation, sensitivity and ulcerations will also be described. Extensive handouts will supplement this fast-paced lecture with emphasis on practical clinical management of medicated dental patients.
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the most common causes of xerostomia, taste disorders, oral pigmentation, osteonecrosis of the jaw, chemical sensitivity, and mucositis.
- Discuss dental management strategies for xerostomia, halitosis, and mucositis.
- List four chronic medications that limit vasoconstrictor dosage.
