I have been seeing a patient for over 25 years. Now I’m seeing the husband as a patient. The husband has some significant medical history, in particular, 2 heart attacks with significant heart damage. And he’s only in his 50s.
Upon examination, he will need to have some dental work done. Although he requires only fillings, he will need a local anesthetic for these appointments. He may also need to see an oral surgeon for an extraction.
Time to Bring in the Medical Doctor
I just spoke to the patient’s wife and realized how challenged this patient has been from this medical situation despite seeming quite recovered. So I informed her that I need to have a notification from his medical doctor for clearance on dental treatment. The wife informed me that the last dentist had provided treatment since the heart attack, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the dentist complied with the doctor’s guidelines. The medical doctor is the quarterback for major decisions on all treatments, especially when any drugs or medications are involved. I do not want a patient to have an adverse reaction because of any negligence on our part.
Once I have the information from the doctor I can proceed with the necessary dental help. The patient can be protected as best as I can.
Your dental health is important – even if you have compromised health. At Lohmann Dental we will work with your MD when necessary to ensure that dental treatment is provided in the safest of circumstances.