A recent collaboration between the Australian Dental Association (ADA) and Alzheimer’s Australia produced a 6-part video series called, “Partnership in Practising Care: Quality Dental Care for People with Dementia.” One of the strategies covered is sedation dentistry. We are going to provide an overview of dental treatments for dementia patients, including the role of sedation dentistry.
The videos include subject matter important to our profession as we continue to evolve in how we treat challenging cases such as dementia patients. We strive to provide quality care for everyone. That includes patients who have dementia or are otherwise compromised. It is our job to take care of them when they need it the most.
Dementia presents and manifests itself in many different ways. No two patients are alike but dementia does present some patterns that need acknowledgement and care. Whenever possible, for example, it is recommended to keep dementia patients with their regular dentist who has been treating them in prior years.
To learn more, call our Joondalup dentists today on (08) 9404 9520
The “Partnership” agenda helps us make some subtle changes that can help us provide quality care to dementia patients. Some important factors to consider: the clinical consequences and implications of sedation dentistry or general anaesthesia, the risks of multiple morbidities and the advantages a multidisciplinary approach has over the traditional approach.
How Sedation Dentistry Fits into Dementia Care
Sedation dentistry must be used with great care for dementia patients. Usually, a mild sedative can be beneficial. General anaesthesia sounds like it would be a great choice, but it often ends in a terrible experience for the patient when he or she wakes up. However, a mild sedative such as Xanax can be beneficial and help keep a dementia patient from entering a state of panic.
Call Candlewood Dental Centre Today
If you or a family member is in need of dental care, call Candlewood Dental Centre in Joondalup today. We gladly accept and treat patients of all ages, from youth to those afflicted with dementia. For those who don’t like the dentist, we do offer sedation dentistry.
To learn more, call our dentists in Joondalup today on (08) 9404 9520
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, we encourage you to discuss these matters with an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
