Search

The article presents guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry on the management of dental patients with special health care needs (SHCN). It states that there is an increased risk for oral diseases with SHCN individuals, which can have a direct impact on the health of patients suffering systemic health problems or conditions. It comments on the establishing of dental homes for patients with SHCN and the need to transition these patients when they reach adulthood. It talks about oral hygiene methods and other preventive strategies that can help SHCN individuals reduce their risk for oral disease; it suggests SHCN patients might benefit from the use of pits and fissure sealants.

The article presents guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry concerning prescribing dental radiographs for infant and child patients and patients with special health care requirements. It states that recommendations in the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines were developed to serve as an adjunct to the professional judgment of the dentist. It mentions that initial radiographic examinations should be based on each child's individual circumstances rather than on age.

The article presents guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry on the use of anesthesia personnel in administering dental office-based general anesthesia or deep sedation to child patients. It states that while most children are able to receive treatment with minimal discomfort with minimal or moderate sedation, some children and patients with special health care needs require a greater level of sedation to receive dental services in a humane and safe manner. It mentions that office-based general anesthesia or deep sedation methods require a minimum of three practitioners to administer drugs, constantly monitor patient vital signs and ensure the adequacy of ventilation.