Dentistry and Mental Health

Question 1

What is the “Medical Model”

Answer 1

• Impairment is located within the individual
• It requires a doctors diagnosis
• Patient should undergo medical treatment prescribed
• Failure to do so in mental illness may be seen as a lack of insight.

Question 2

What is the “Social Model”

Answer 2

• The issue is with the society not the individual
• Industrialisation
• Workhouses/Madhouses
• Behaviour that can no longer be accommodated within society is institutionalised

Question 3

How do we assess someone’s capacity for consent

Answer 3

• Understanding of info
• Retain info
• Weigh it up and balance

Question 4

Why might someone have poor attendance patterns and what things should you consider

Answer 4

• Chaotic lifestyles
• Lack of motivation
• Anxiety/Phobia
• Paranoia

CONSIDER:

• Appointment timings
• Involve a third person if possible
• Reminders
• Empathy

Question 5

What are some of the effects of Psychotropic Drugs

Answer 5

• Xerostomia
• Hypersalivation
• Parafunction
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Methadone

Question 6

How do we look at if someone is a Risk

Answer 6

• Past/Current History

1.) To others - violence and aggression training

2. ) To self
   - Cutting/picking - may include mouth/face
   - Overdose - care with prescribing

3.) Self neglect - increased caries and periodontal disease