Dentistry Flashcards
When is antibiotic prophylaxis necessary for dental procedures?
With patients that have had cardiac issues: prosthetic heart valves, previous endocarditis, congenital heart disease, etc.
Whenever gingival tissue is manipulated, or periapical regions of teeth are involved (extractions, cleanings, fillings)
Antibiotics used in dental prophylaxis.
Amoxicillin, Clindamycin
What 3 things are required for dental caries to occur?
- Teeth
- Bacteria
- Sugar source
Most common cause of crown caries, then root caries.
- Strep mutans (crown)
2. Actinomyces (root)
How does Strep mutans cause crown infections?
The bacteria converts its sugar source in glucans which form an adhesive surface for accumulation of bacteria. Metabolic acid waste is produced which degrades tooth tissue.
Major bug that plays a role in later stage caries development.
Lactobacillus
What is a TACTL explorer?
That sharp thing hygienists poke your teeth with at a check-up. It can locate areas of decay.
In what two ways does fluoride prevent dental caries?
- Makes enamel less soluble in acid
2. Becomes part of the dentin and enamel matrix
What is considered periodontitis?
Infection of the gingiva and alveolar bone.
How do teeth become loose with periodontitis?
Infection signals odontoblasts to resorb alveolar bone deeper into the gingiva removing the anchoring ligaments stabilizing the tooth.
What are 3 major preventative actions that can prevent dental disease?
- Hygiene - brush and floss
- Pit and Fissure Sealant
- Regular dental exams
What does pain with a hot stimulus indicate?
Irreversible pulp infection
What is the treatment for pulp infection?
Endodontic or root canal treatment
What material is used as a filler during a root canal procedure?
Gutta Percha
When is a pulpotomy procedure conducted?
On baby teeth when there is a pulp infection. This preserves that vital pulp chamber down in the gingiva that will become the adult tooth.
