Angina: an update for dentistry
Article Abstract:
Dentists must be familiar with angina in order to provide optimal treatment to patients with this condition. Angina is a symptom that occurs when the heart is not adequately oxygenated. Patients may experience heaviness or pressure in the middle of the chest that may radiate to the jaw, arm, neck, or shoulder. It is usually caused by the buildup of fatty material inside the coronary artery. Methods to diagnose angina include a physical examination, chest x-rays, laboratory tests, and exercise stress testing. First-line therapy may include lifestyle changes. Rapidly-acting nitrates are prescribed to treat acute anginal episodes. Beta blockers, long-acting-nitrates, and calcium channel blockers prevent some episodes of angina. Dentists should obtain baseline vital signs on patients with stable angina and ask them to bring their medication to dental appointments. Dentists should consult with the physicians of patients with more severe angina to establish the course of dental treatment.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1996
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The use of pulse oximetry in dentistry
Article Abstract:
Pulse oximetry allows dentists to monitor patients' pulse rates and oxygenation status. The machine produces visual and audio signals when these vital signs change. Most oximeters are highly accurate and respond to variations in the patient's status within seconds. Dentists may use oximeters to obtain patients' presurgical blood oxygen levels and pulse rates and to monitor for alterations during sedation or surgery. Dental patients with medical conditions are candidates for pulse oximetry, even when their treatment does not require sedation. Young children who receive oral sedatives with a narrow range of safety should have their vital signs tracked. The pulse oximeter can monitor patients in the recovery room and alert clinicians to conditions that lead to low blood oxygen levels.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1995
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