Managing patients who have seizure disorders: dental and medical issues

Most patients with seizure disorders can receive routine dental care. Patients may suffer from general seizures that affect the entire brain or partial seizures that involve a limited brain area. They may exhibit altered levels of consciousness during seizures. Most seizure disorders can be controlled with medication. Dentists should obtain a through medical history from all seizure patients and possess familiarity with anticonvulsants. The most commonly prescribed anticonvulsants are phenytoin (Dilantin) and phenobarbital. Approximately half of all patients taking phenytoin develop overgrown gum tissues. Surgical removal of excess tissue is necessary if oral function or appearance is compromised. In the event of a seizure in the dental office, the clinician should protect the patient from injury, maintain an open airway, monitor vital signs, and contact emergency medical personnel.