Patient histories: Pain, Dental, Diet, Family & Social

Question 1

Discuss the importance of general evaluation of patient

Answer 1

• Assess the fitness of a patient for a procedure and assist in method of treatment to be carried out
• Avoid medical/dental emergencies
• Provide care in a holistic approach
• Precautions prior to and during dental treatment. E.G. need for Antibiotic cover 1 hour prior to dental treatment
• Referral to other specialists
• Legal documentation to manage and reduce risks – record it all

Question 2

Discuss and inform the patient about a health diet with particular reference to vitamins and minerals that may influence both a healthy and unhealthy periodontium

Answer 2

From diet diaries you can determine the overall general diet of a patient and determine if it leads towards being

a. Cariogenic - due to a high frequency of refined carbohydrates
b. Erosive - due to a high frequency of acidic foods and drinks 3
c. Periodontal disease influencing – due to a across the board vitamin and mineral deficiency

Nutrient Deficiencies that may increase risk for Periodontal Disease
• Vitamin D and Calcium deficiencies
• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) deficiencies has been associated with changes in the periodontium
• Protein deficiency can effect how a host modulates the progress of periodontitis
• Antioxidant deficiency may play a role in increasing the risk of periodontal disease
• Omega 3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid deficiency can confer negative inflammatory effects

Question 3

Discuss how Family and Social History may influence your interaction/advice you give your patient

Answer 3

• Attitudes to oral health: cultural and / or financial
• Personal habits that affect the oral cavity
• Familial genetic diseases
• Build rapport with the patient and family
• Helps to formulate a realistic treatment plan

Question 4

Discuss how a Patients Mental Status may influence your interaction with your patient

Answer 4

\• emotionally unstable due to medication, systemic disease or psychiatric disorders
• unable to understand you (language barrier)
• at risk of a medical emergency
• potentially dangerous to self or you

Question 5

Identify which details a clinician must initially observe when assessing a patients Mental Status

Answer 5

• Overall appearance
• Alertness
• Emotions
• Physical Gait
• Skin Colour
• Eyes
• State of Dress
• Under the influence of drugs/ medication
• Responds well to questions