Drug-Related Problems in Fixed Prosthodontics

Dental patients are becoming more chemically challenged which means that clinicians must consider the dental treatment impact of chronic drug therapy or chemical exposure. This lecture will provide clinically useful information on identification and management of intra-oral drug and chemical effects. Drug-induced effects such as bruxism, increased gag reflex, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, candidosis and most importantly, xerostomia, will be examined. Chemical contact effects such as mucosal irritation, sensitivity and ulcerations will also be described. Extensive handouts will supplement this fast-paced lecture with emphasis on practical clinical management of medicated dental patients.

After attending the lecture and reading the handout, the participant should be able to: 1. describe the most common causes of xerostomia, taste disorders, orofacial movement disorders, oral pigmentation, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), chemical sensitivity and mucositis, 2. discuss dental management strategies for xerostomia, halitosis and mucositis, and 3. list four chronic medications that limit vasoconstrictor dosage.

- Xerostomia and Halitosis: management and prevention

- Drug-induced oral lesions,taste disorders,movement disorders

- MRONJ

- How to identify and avoid clinically significant drug-drug interactions in Fixed Prosthodontics