The primary purpose of a patient visit to the dental office is to allow their
doctor and/or dental auxiliary to perform a
dental treatment that will aid in the
improvement of their overall oral health. The primary goal of the doctor is to
perform this treatment as effectively and as safely as possible. Patients give
little thought to the possibility that some unforeseen medical emergency might
arise in the period of time during which they are in the dental office.
Many of the things done by the doctor and staff prior to, and during, the
dental treatment are done to minimize the risk of a medical emergency.
For example, the medical history questionnaire, recording of blood pressure, and
discussion of a patient's health history help to determine what potential
risks might be present and enables the doctor to modify the planned
dental
treatment to minimize the potential risks. In many instances, the use of conscious sedation will
be indicated as a means of decreasing stress associated with dental care. This
is especially important in persons with cardiovascular diseases (such as high
blood pressure or angina) who might be somewhat fearful of visiting the dentist.
The use of effective drugs for pain control (such as local anesthetics) is yet
another means of minimizing the risk of medical emergencies developing during
treatment.
In the unlikely event that a medical emergency does occur while a patient is
in the dental office, one should know that (it is highly likely) the doctor has
received training in the management of medical emergencies that develop
frequently.
Amongst the more commonly observed medical emergencies in dental offices are
fainting, seizures, acute asthmatic attacks, allergy, and chest pain (angina).
Virtually all of these emergencies occur as a result of fear and anxiety.
Therefore, it becomes very important for the patient to advise their doctor if
they are apprehensive about their
dental treatment. Steps usually can be taken
which will prevent these situations from occurring.
Additionally, in many states it is mandatory for all dentists to be certified
in basic life support (CPR) on a regular basis. In many dental offices,
additional staff personnel are also trained in this very important technique.
Dental offices maintain an emergency supply of oxygen, as well as commonly
used emergency equipment and drugs.
And finally, most dental offices are located in close proximity to their
community's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system (9-1-1). A telephone call
activating this system will provide well-trained life-saving medical assistance
within a few minutes.
