Wednesday, May 04, 2011

Dental Did You Know: Common Systemic Diseases in Elderly Patients that Affect Dental Care: Arthritis

Arthritis can cause reduced dexterity for oral hygiene/restorative procedures, joint discomfort in the dental chair, and a tendency to bleed.  Providers should be aware of antibiotic coverage for joint protheses and the possible need for corticosteroid supplementation.

Source: Committee of Clinical and Scientific Affairs, Best Practices for Aging Adults in Private Dental Practice, J Can Dent Assoc 2011;77:b40.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100