Atrial fibrillation and its relationship to dental care.
BACKGROUND
The number of Americans diagnosed with and treated for atrial fibrillation, or AF, continues to rise.


METHODS
To determine how AF may affect the provision of dental care, the author conducted a literature search, using terms such as "atrial fibrillation" and "dental care." He found a lack of information on these combined topics. Therefore, the author extrapolated information from scientific peer-reviewed articles on AF, medical and surgical management of AF, and dental care to determine appropriate guidelines for dental treatment of patients with AF.


RESULTS
The author found that complications can arise from AF and that medical management of AF can affect the delivery of dental care. Dentists should determine the underlying cause of AF to decide if antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated. Patients who are receiving anticoagulation therapy may not need to alter their therapy schedules for minor oral surgery procedures. Anxiety as a result of AF may require use of anxiety-reducing protocols before dental treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
To reduce potential complications associated with dental care, dental practitioners should be familiar with AF and its treatment. Dental management of patients with AF may require treatment modifications, but generally will not deviate significantly from routine standards.
Muzyka
B C
BC
Louisiana State University School of Dentistry, Orleans, USA.
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001007:Anxiety / Q000517:prevention & control; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000517:prevention & control; D017742:Dental Care for Chronically Ill; D006801:Humans
D014151:Anti-Anxiety Agents; D000925:Anticoagulants