Dental Treatment for Patients with Complex Medical Histories

At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we specialize in working with patients who have complex medical histories in St. Louis.

Dentists treat an ever-aging population, many of which have significant medical issues. Therapy, medications, and treatments for common diseases are continually changing. It is, therefore, essential for dentists to stay up-to-date with medical problems so that they can provide safe dental care for their patients.

Whether a patient has special needs or they’ve just grown older, as time goes on and patients live out their lives, their medical histories tend to become much more complicated. Unfortunately, many of these same patients have a difficult time finding dentists who are willing and able to provide the treatment in a safe environment.

What Are Complex Medical Histories

The term might seem a bit vague, though a patient with a complex medical history may have had cancer, cardiac concerns, organ failure, or an immune system that was compromised at one point or another. Before seeing a dentist and initiating treatment, whether a checkup or an extensive procedure, it may be necessary to have a medical consultation.

Some other examples of complex medical histories include:

• Liver or kidney problems that may affect how medications are metabolized
• Patients requiring antibiotic prophylaxis
• Timing dental treatment with chemotherapy or radiation treatment
• Epinephrine needs to be avoided due to cardiac history
• Antibiotic premedication due to a weakened immune system or other comorbidities

Special Care Dentistry

Treating patients who have complex medical histories and disabilities requires empathy, skill, and willingness and ability to adjust to their changing needs. If you care for someone who requires special care dentistry, make sure to discuss any special accommodations, and any appointment preferences.

Sedation Dentistry and Medical History

Sedation dentistry is used based on the patient’s cooperation, their health history, and the extent of treatment they need. At The Dental Anesthesia Center, we have the only board-certified dental anesthesiologists in the state of Missouri, including the St. Louis metro area.

When you come in for your appointment Dr. Hoffmann, Dr. Thoms, or Dr. Daugherty will decide which level is best for you. We look forward to meeting you. Call us at (314) 862-7844, and one of our friendly team members will be happy to speak with you or make an appointment online.