Initial visit:
Patient is a 33-year-old non-smoker and has well-controlled asthma and seasonal allergies.
BP: 112/71 Pulse: 65 ASA: 2
This patient has well-controlled asthma and uses Albuterol inhaler once a day. One day before the appointment, I reminded the patient to bring his inhaler to the clinic. On the day of the appointment, I asked him several questions about his asthma, including did he use the inhaler on that day, when was the last attack and what triggers the asthma. An intraoral exam showed a red circular macule on the left side of the buccal mucosal, around 1mm in diameter- possibly due to cheek biting. Localized supragingival calculus was found on the mandibular anterior teeth and generalized subgingival calculus was found mostly on the mandibular teeth.
Exposing HBWs was the first step in my treatment plan after all the assessments. Radiographs showed bone loss within normal limits, which corresponds with gingivitis. Then I utilized ultrasonic and hand instruments to clean all the calculus. For pain management, I used Oraqix and the patient responded well.
I explained the effect of asthma on oral health, because individuals with asthma may breathe through their mouth more frequently, especially during asthma attacks or when experiencing shortness of breath. Mouth breathing can dry out the oral tissues and decrease saliva flow, which can increase the risk of dental problems. Therefore I recommend mouth rinse with water after inhaler use to help remove any medication residue and prevent dry mouth, and drink plenty of water to help keep the mouth moist and promote saliva production.
