Neurology - Introduction

Question 1

What is neurology?

List some effects of neurological illness:

Any important points to remember?

Answer 1

Medical specialty concerned with the nervous system - both the PNS and CNS

Effects of neurological illness:

• unique to individual
• depend upon the part of the nervous system affected
• can be profound and sudden (stroke, head injury)
• can be gradually progressive (MS, MND)

So… never assume, always ask

Support independence and individuallity when you are providing dental care

Question 2

What dental impacts can neurological disease cause?

Answer 2

• may have movement, sensory, autonomic or cognitive problems
• reduced manual dexterity may affect OH
• difficulty getting onto treatment couch
• adjustments for wheelchair users
• drooling of saliva if swallowing difficulties

Question 3

What should you ask the patient prior to treating them?

Answer 3

• how does your condition affect you
• any particular considerations before we treat you today
• how are you most comfortably positioned for dental treatment
• Stroke - may be on blood thinning medication

Question 4

Important dental aspects for dentists to consider:

Answer 4

• understanding of neurological deficits
• recognition of stroke as medical emergency
• recognition of undiagnosed disease
• awareness of medication
• understanding of disability and consequences