Health Concerns in Dentistry: Medical Dental Interaction
The video is part of a monthly Henry Shine series discussing health concerns in dentistry, focusing on how to ensure the safest dental visit.
Dr. Gary Severance, along with Dr. David Resnick, discusses medical-dental interaction and how working together can improve patient outcomes. The importance of coverage is still being talked about, but the number of new confirmed cases of COVID-19 has decreased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic.
However, community transmission still guides what safety measures Dental Health Care Providers should consider. It is suggested that older individuals and immunocompromised individuals should wear masks in crowded areas to prevent the spread of not only COVID-19 but also other viruses such as cold, flu, and RSV.
Dr. Resnick emphasizes the importance of taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety and health of everyone, especially older individuals and children who have been hit hard by the pandemic.
Ensure that you follow best practice and strategies for CDC infection control guidelines & training so you can protect your patients while operating at maximum efficiency.
Advanced Clinical Considerations for Safer Dental Care
Building on existing infection-control practices, this session further explores how dental teams can elevate patient safety through more advanced clinical awareness and decision-making.
While general safety protocols remain important, greater emphasis is now being placed on chairside risk management, particularly during procedures that generate aerosols. Effective use of ventilation systems, air filtration, and procedural controls plays a key role in minimizing exposure risks for both patients and staff.
A central theme of the discussion is the importance of adopting a whole-patient approach. Oral health is closely linked to systemic conditions, with periodontal disease associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, COPD, obstructive sleep apnea, and complications from viral infections. Recognizing these connections allows dental professionals to contribute more meaningfully to overall patient health.
To support this approach, dental teams are encouraged to implement patient-specific risk assessment protocols. This includes reviewing medical histories in detail, evaluating current medications, and identifying underlying conditions that may impact treatment outcomes.
Particular attention should be given to hypertension, as many patients present with elevated or uncontrolled blood pressure. Routine screening especially prior to invasive or surgical procedures can help identify potential risks and guide safer clinical decisions.
The session also highlights the importance of interprofessional communication, shifting the focus from traditional “medical clearance” toward meaningful dialogue with physicians centered on risk evaluation and coordinated care planning.
In addition, updated guidance around antibiotic use reinforces the need for responsible prescribing. The removal of clindamycin from recommended regimens due to its association with serious complications, such as C. difficile infection, underscores the growing importance of antibiotic stewardship in dentistry.
Another critical area addressed is dental unit waterline safety. Waterborne pathogens, including Mycobacterium abscessus, continue to present risks in clinical settings. Consistent maintenance, regular testing, and strict adherence to waterline protocols are essential for preventing contamination and ensuring patient safety.
Our dental training courses can also be delivered online or in the evenings after patient schedules to ensure there is no disruption to your practice.
For more assistance contact, your local Hayes representative to help ensure that your staff and practice are compliant with your local Hayes Handpiece representative.