Mental illness is a common health disorder that transcends race, gender, nationality and socioeconomic status. Within the United States, nearly one-third of the population will experience a psychiatric issue during their lifetime. During a given year, 20-30% of the adult population will be afflicted with one or more psychiatric disorders. Some are acute and of short duration while others are chronic afflictions that are characterized by periods of remissions and exacerbations that can extend for the patient’s lifetime.
This course will discuss some of the identifying features of the most common psychiatric disorders and the adverse manner in which they can affect oral health through behavioral issues or via deleterious side effects of psychiatric medications. Adverse drug reactions between those medications used for psychiatric issues and those which are used within the scope of dental treatment will be discussed.
The number of patients with psychiatric problems within the United States suggests that most dental practices will have the opportunity to treat people with a diverse range of mental health issues. It is essential that all members of the dental staff understand the unique needs of this patient population so that the appropriate dental treatment can be provided in an effort to maintain optimal oral health. The diagnosis and treatment of the varying mental health disorders requires a multidisciplinary team of health care providers the details of which are beyond the scope or intent of this course.
The information provided in this course is intended to raise the awareness of mental health issues and their direct and indirect impact upon oral health and to identify the means through which dental care for these patients can be provided in a safe and efficient fashion.